Youth workers in County Durham are seeking new people to take on an internationally recognised challenge.
After a summer of success that saw teenagers and young adults completed their bronze, silver and gold level awards, staff at Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre, which is run by Durham County Council’s One Point Service, are ready to welcome those who will take on the scheme as it celebrates its diamond anniversary in 2016.
Cllr Ossie Johnson, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been running at Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre for over 20 years, helping and supporting young people to gain valuable experience, build confidence, make new friends and take on new challenges.
“The experience gained has shaped and changed the lives of many young people from the area, some going on to do more amazing things and influencing career choices, and leisure activities.”
The Award is open to all young people aged 14 to 24-years-old, with a minimum age of 14-years-old to participate at the bronze level, 15-years-old for the silver level and 16-years-old for gold level.
To complete an award individuals must demonstrate regular volunteer work, skills and physical activity over a minimum of three months – as well as plan and take part in a group expedition.
Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre is holding an open evening for anyone in the area who is interested in taking part in its Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme on November 15th at 6.30pm. For more information call Alison Ghent at the One Point Hub in Newton Aycliffe on 03000 261 118.
Or for details on joining a Duke of Edinburgh group elsewhere in County Durham call 03000 261 111.