For a number of years now, a very sucessful project has been targeting the needs of particularly vulnerable young people. This is the UProject based at Grafham Water Centre.
WHAT IS THE UPROJECT?
The UProject programme seeks to ensure a SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION for Year 11 school leavers to post 16 options by providing support and opportunities to participate in fun and challenging activities.
WHO IS IT FOR?
The programme is targeted at YR. 11 SCHOOL LEAVERS who are unlikely to make a successful transition, or who are undecided or unsure about their post 16 options in education, training or employment. Young people are referred by Schools, Youth Workers, Connexions Workers and other Agencies.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE PROGRAMME?
The programme includes a RESIDENTIAL EXPERIENCE and INDIVIDUAL ACTION PLANNING and reviewing for each young person. There will be 1:1’s and group sessions leading up to the residential to develop confidence, teamwork and relationship’s. Following the residential there will be sessions to help guide and support the young people in their post 16 options and an event to celebrate the young people’s achievements. Each young Person will have the opportunity to work with a PA from CONNEXIONS and to produce his/her own INDIVIDUAL PORTFOLIO, which will lead to National ACCREDITATION.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE RESIDENTIAL?
The activities during the residential are based mainly on OUTDOOR ADVENTURE, but can be adapted to individual groups needs. The average length of a residential is 3 days and 2 nights. All travel, instruction and specialist equipment will be provided. Youth Workers and Connexions workers will accompany Young people on the activities.
WHY SHOULD YOUNG PEOPLE BE INVOLVED?
This is an excellent opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, engage in challenging activities, achieve accreditation and have fun. It provides substantial opportunities for young people to improve their chances of making a more successful transition to post 16 education, training or employment.
During 2007, 95% of participants progressed into FURTHER EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT OR TRAINING.
100% of the participants achieved EXTRA QUALIFICATION’S ranging from ASDAN’s YOUTH ACTIVITY AWARD, VOLUNTEERING AWARD’S to a BCU 1 STAR NATIONAL AWARD IN KAYAKING. All participants produce a Portfolio of Evidence throughout the programme and a small percentage are chosen for Mentor training on completion of the programme.
HOW DO I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAMME?
Either contact the Project Co-ordinator: Kim Jeffries on 01480810521, or log on to our website at: www.uprojectcp.co.uk