Meet Emily, a passionate music teacher from Birmingham, who has been part of the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme as a participant and team leader. Her journey not only mirrors her personal growth but also highlights the broader impact of NCS on young people. Emily’s NCS adventure began after wanting to follow in her brother’s footsteps, who had previously took part in and enjoyed the NCS programme. Drawn by the prospect of thrilling team activities, Emily eagerly joined NCS.
Motivation for Working on NCS:
Emily’s journey through NCS saw her go from a young person attending the programme to an assistant team leader and onto team leader, where she played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring young people. After attending NCS as a young person, Emily’s dedication to working with young people led her to become a qualified music teacher.
Benefits of NCS for Young People:
Emily highlighted the multitude of benefits NCS offers to young individuals. It pushes them beyond their comfort zones, nurturing confidence and encouraging them to explore new horizons within a supportive framework. Additionally, NCS equips participants with essential life skills like budgeting, financial literacy, and first aid, which often go overlooked in traditional education. These skills not only empower young people but also set them on a path toward future success, including higher education. NCS provides opportunities for young people to develop essential skills, build confidence, improve their mental health and wellbeing, and increase social interaction.
NCS pushes young people beyond their comfort zones, nurturing confidence and encouraging them to explore new horizons within a supportive framework.
Advice to Young People Considering NCS:
Emily had a powerful message for young minds contemplating going on NCS. She urged them to see NCS as a unique platform for personal growth, distinct from the formalities of school. Emily emphasised the chance to forge new friendships, build self-reliance, and enjoy an enriching and fun experience away from home. NCS, she believes, not only shapes well-rounded individuals but also offers invaluable personal and professional development.
Advice to Her 16-Year-Old Self:
Reflecting on her journey, Emily offered advice to her younger self. She acknowledged her struggle with self-esteem during her youth and wished she could have told her 16-year-old self to be more confident in her abilities and self-worth. She stressed the importance of self-belief, hard work, and the potential for achieving more than she initially imagined. Emily credited NCS as a significant contributor to her personal and professional growth.
Conclusion:
Emily’s story shows the profound impact NCS can have on young people and those who work alongside them. Her transition from NCS participant to team leader showcases the programme’s ability to empower individuals, build confidence, and impart essential life skills. Emily’s unwavering endorsement of NCS underscores its invaluable role in shaping independent, confident, and well-rounded young citizens. Her message is clear: NCS offers a transformative experience that positively influences the lives of young people and those fortunate enough to be part of the NCS family.
1 thought on “Transforming Lives Through NCS – Emily’s Story”
Emily eloquently describes the benefits that participation and volunteering in NCS can bring to young people. Having previously been involved with A4Y and NCS for many years, I am a true believer in the positive impact that it can make on the lives of young people. Well done Emily, keeping spreading the word!
Ken Birkby Former Chair of Trustees