Programme helps young people ‘xl’
Thursday, February 4 2010
Almost ninety per cent (86%) of S4 pupils in the Borders who took part in a Prince’s Trust alternative learning programme, designed to boost confidence and self esteem, have positively benefitted from the experience, according to independent research.
Four Prince’s Trust ‘xlerate with xl’ clubs were run in schools across the area, in partnership with Borders Council, in the year 2008/2009. During that time, teenagers took part in a number of personal development initiatives, including participating in community projects and mentoring opportunities, designed to boost self-esteem and confidence.
The figures, which were collated by Careers Scotland, found 86% of the participants from the Borders have moved onto ‘positive’ outcomes, which includes a move into further or higher education, voluntary work, employment or training.
Since being piloted in 1999, The Trust’s xl programme has helped over 58,000 young people to overcome barriers to learning, develop skills and re-engage with their school and education, allowing them to make the most of their time at school, boost their motivation and develop skills for the world of work. The programme helps young people to become more confident individuals who are more likely to succeed in their studies and play a positive role in their communities.
Commenting on the findings, Geraldine Gammell, Director of The Prince’s Trust Scotland, said:
“Early intervention is vitally important for young people to improve their learning experience and prepare them for life after school. These positive statistics are testament to that working and I look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the Scottish Borders Council where our combined expertise will help young people to achieve their full potential.”
Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Education Councillor Catriona Bhatia added:
“I am delighted that such a high percentage of pupils who took part in the programme last year have benefited from the experience by going onto employment, voluntary work or further education. Any programme which engages with our young people to help them work towards a better future is a good thing and I look forward to seeing the benefits of the programme continue into the future.”
The programme is currently in place in the Borders at:
Berwickshire High, Earlston High School, Eyemouth High School, Hawick High, Peebles High and Selkirk High School.
The Prince’s Trust Scotland has helped more than 60,000 young people gain skills and find work since 1976, and continues to support 100 more young people every day across the UK. The Trust works with 14 to 25 year olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law.
Note
• Youth charity, The Prince’s Trust Scotland, helps change young lives. It gives practical and financial support, developing skills such as confidence and motivation. Further information about The Prince’s Trust is available at www.princes-trust.org.uk or on 0800 842 842
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