More than 26,000 16- and 17-year-olds took part in the National Citizen Service (NCS) in 2012. Although take-up was three times higher than in 2011, the fact that 6,000 available places were unfilled last year has prompted some to question its viability to expand in the future.
An evaluation by charity NatCen Social Research of the second year of the government's flagship youth programme points to problems in some areas of England where a lack of awareness in schools about the scheme challenged providers.
"There remained a feeling that providers were 'going in cold' in these schools," says the report, referring to schools that were not involved in the 2011 NCS. The report also notes that providers faced challenges "around multiple providers recruiting in the same areas, with some approaching the same schools and colleges".
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
