The Prince’s Trust course teaches a host of new skills (From Dorset Echo)

The Prince’s Trust course teaches a host of new skills

2:00pm Friday 15th February 2013 in News By Martin Lea

YOUNGSTERS are blazing a trail as they celebrate three weeks into a potentially life-changing programme.

A group have signed up for the 100th Prince’s Trust course run by Dorset Fire and Rescue Service.

Already the youngsters on ‘Team 100’, operating out of Weymouth Community Safety Centre, have seen just how the course can help them by giving them news skills and introducing them to new experiences.

The 12-week personal development programme allows 16-25 year olds to undertake many different activities whilst they are working towards a nationally recognised award. The participants, who usually come from a variety of different backgrounds, will have the opportunity to spend a week away at a residential activity centre, undertake a project based in their local community, complete a work placement and participate in a team challenge, involving caring for others.

They are now into week three and so far the group has held a charity car wash, helped renovate a local boxing club and completed their residential week on Dartmoor which included abseiling, kayaking, rock climbing and entertaining the staff.

The Prince’s Trust was established in 1976 and aims to give young people key skills, confidence and motivation and enable them to move into work, education or training.

Last year more than 60 young people participated in the DFRS Prince’s Trust teams in the county, with every youngster gaining a certificate in employment, teamwork and community skills.

DFRS Prince’s Trust franchise manager Marie-Clare Nicholson said: “The team have bonded really well, are achieving over and above what has been set for them and I look forward to watching them progress and develop as a team over the next 10 weeks.

“Quite simply this course can and does change young people’s lives. We deliver a programme that is about getting off seats and into the community to build personal and employment skills so that young people can feel more empowered to find work or the right career path for them.”

DFRS is currently recruiting for young people to participate in teams in Poole, Boscombe, Weymouth and Blandford.

Marie added: “Please have a look at the Prince Trust website or contact Sonia on 01305 753035 for more.”