A fast paced activity full week designed to promote team building, introduce Health & Safety, community awareness and transferable core skills, including communication, problem solving, tolerance and working with others. Initial BKSB assessments undertaken and action plans set with the young people.

This week includes outdoor activities on a large scale. The residential week promotes team building and problem solving skills through a structured learning experience away from the local community in residential accommodation. The aim of this week is to improve self-confidence and provide the opportunity to take responsibility as a leader in some activities. The week away is of NO COST to the young people and food, transport and accommodation are provided.

The first week is allocated as a planning week for the project, which has been identified in the local community by the Team itself. The project is carried out in weeks 5 and 6 and allows the Team to take responsibility for a task and gives them a sense of ownership of their achievements. It is usually a practical project (decorating, renovation, etc), and it may include skills training where possible and encourages them to build links with their community and other agencies. The Community Project is an ideal opportunity for young people to create evidence towards their qualification.

The individual placement gives individuals a chance to gain experience of a workplace. The placement is agreed with the individual and they are able to make an informed, supported choice as to the type of placement they require. The Team leader supports them throughout their placements, with both visits and regular contact with their base. It is an opportunity for young people to develop their transferable skills and an invaluable work ethic.

Next Steps Week is an opportunity to work on life skills and consider what options there might be after the completion of the course. Time is spent carrying out job searches, mock interviews and creating personal CVs. Careers guidance and employment options focused on with support from NCS and local colleges.

This is the Team’s chance to take on a challenge involving taking responsibility for or interacting with another group of people from their community. Past examples have included organising day trips or events for the elderly, those with special needs, or other disabilities. The planning and execution is carried out by the young people and utilises many of the skills and experiences that they have acquired in the past weeks.

The final week of the Programme culminates in a presentation to an invited audience to promote what the young people have achieved over the past twelve weeks. This week also provides an opportunity to review all the learning that has taken place and to complete the Individual Learning Records which go forward to be assessed for the Certificate in Employment, Teamwork and Community Skills. The Presentation is an opportunity to award the Certificates achieved by young people in front of an invited audience.