The National Citizen Service (NCS) is a personal and social development programme for 15–17 year olds. Established in 2011, the programme aims to build a more cohesive, mobile and engaged society. By bringing young people together from different backgrounds for a unique shared experience, NCS helps them to fulfil their potential and broaden their horizons.

Over 300 schools across the country have been awarded this status. Champion school head teachers and staff cite the markedly positive effect that participation in NCS programmes has on both young people and their wider institutions. Schools that have significant numbers of pupils taking part in NCS have seen a notable change in pupil wellbeing and engagement with academic work. For young people, NCS provides a host of practical and emotional benefits, among them a positive contribution to UCAS personal statements and wider social and personal development. Nearly three quarters of those who have taken part in NCS feel more confident about getting a job, and 9/10 feel that it has helped them develop useful skills for the future.  They also demonstrate high levels of confidence and resilience, and report lower levels of anxiety than their peers. 

Education Secretary Justine Greening said:

“It’s really fantastic to see that so many pupils have already benefitted from the wide range of programmes provided by National Citizen Service (NCS).

“I want to congratulate all the ‘champion schools’ and thank them for their hard work and commitment helping young people across the country gain vital skills that will help them get on in life and fulfil their potential.

We will continue our work with NCS and strive to maintain and improve our Champion School status by working with our local NCS delivery teams. If your teenager is in years 9-11, the NCS team will be in school to give them more information throughout the year and update them on all the community projects St Wilfrid’s Catholic School have been involved with.

If you would like more information about NCS or how your teenager can book their place please visit ncsyes.co.uk