... ::: Community ::: Youth Challenge **

The Youth Challenge Scheme

Launched in September 2009 this exciting scheme seeks to celebrate non-academic achievement alongside personal development and is open to all pupils in Year 8.

HOW IT WORKS

The Award group undertake a series of challenges both individually and in groups. When challenges are successfully completed and recorded, pupils are awarded a certificate.

This award is nationally recognised by ASDAN and is a valuable record of achievement to show to friends, family, colleges and future employers.

At present we are involved in a number of projects.

Ferry View Sheltered Housing Scheme

Pupils have enjoyed taking part in V.E Day Celebrations, learning how to knit in the resident knitting circle, serving tea at the Christmas tea party for Rooftop Housing residents and sharing their own skills such as ukulele playing and origami with residents.

The visits are an effective way to promote dialogue and dispel prejudice.

The Ark Animal Sanctuary

Youth Challenge members have been involved in all aspects of animal care including preparing and distributing feed for the animals, cleaning out their cages along with preparing displays for the new Education centre at The Ark. The pupils particularly enjoy taking George the resident ferret for a walk and handling the boa constrictor!

Vale Wildlife Charity shop

It is good for the youngsters to get a sense as to how The Animal Sanctuary and Vale wildlife are actually funded and the charity shop has given them valuable experience of shop work from display work to financial management.

Many of the group helped at the Christmas Fair, working alongside fellow Volunteers handling monies and promoting a good cause.

Swan Lane First School

This exciting challenge involves pupils from St Egwin’s working alongside Year 5 pupils at Swan Lane on an Arts project and buddy scheme designed to ease the transition between First and Middle school. This is where the scheme really comes into its own as it successfully challenges pre-conceived ideas by promoting positive activity and discussion.