Service description:
The National Citizen Service (NCS) is a UK Government voluntary personal and social development programme for 15–17 year olds in England and Northern Ireland. It is funded largely by government money and is administered by the NCS Trust CIC.
Week 1 - Adventure
A week-long residential visit, usually to an activity centre with a group of 12-15 others, taking part in physical and team-building activities in the countryside.
Week 2 - Discovery
A week-long residential visit with the same group, in a university-style environment where volunteers can develop life skills like confidence, leadership, and communication to boost their CVs or UCAS personal statements.
Week 3 and 4 - Social Action
Volunteers plan and deliver a 'social action' project in their local community, often to raise awareness of or fundraise for a particular cause.
Graduation
Volunteers who complete the course receive a certificate at a graduation ceremony. The certificate is signed by the Prime Minister in office at the time of graduation.
From 2013 onwards, volunteers have paid £50 each to take part in the scheme, although there are bursaries for those from low-income households.
Sign up to the National Citizen Service via their website.