National Citizen Service


Since its creation in 2011, the National Citizen Service (NCS) has seen more than half a million young people across the UK take part in its programmes. We ask what it is, and more importantly, why it’s worth signing up for.


Be epic; Live life; Do good. Not bad as a motto, but perhaps even more inspiring when you learn that it’s the structure of the NCS programme. Aimed primarily at Year 11s for the summer they leave school (and Year 12s who haven’t already done it), the 2-to-4-week programme is designed to build confidence, explore new opportunities and make new friends. It comes in three phases.


Phase One: Be epic. The first part of the programme involves a one-week residential experience, typically staying in activity centres. The focus is on challenging yourself, so you will get to try a range of adventurous activities you may not have done before: activities like surfing, coasteering or mountain-boarding are


40 Make The Future Yours! Issue 1


not uncommon. Taking part in these activities will not only give you new experiences, but also the chance to meet new people and build friendships.


Phase two: Live life. The second part of the programme also involves a one-week residential experience, typically staying in university halls of residence. The focus is on learning new skills and having the opportunity to experience what living away from home is like. You will be provided a budget to plan and buy the ingredients necessary to cook your own meals as a group. Participants also have the chance to experience some skill-based workshops, anything from candle-making to DJ-ing to sports


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