Wokingham

After the success of last year’s project, Wokingham District Council’s youth service is once again offering young people the chance to attend a summer scheme programme of challenging outdoor activities at the YMCA’s Fairthorne Manor.

Located on the banks of the River Hamble near Southampton, Fairthorne Manor will see young people from Wokingham and surrounding villages taking part in a range of activities including abseiling, climbing, archery, orienteering, raft building and kayaking. All activities are supervised by youth workers and fully qualified instructors throughout their visit.

The summer scheme is organised by Wokingham District Council’s Wokingham Youth Centre and the Villages Youth Project. The two residential sessions run from July 24 to 28 (for young people aged between 13 and 19) and August 21 to 25 (for young people aged between 11 and 14). Day visits for young people, aged between 13 and 19, will also take place between August 7 and 11.

Richard Ferguson, senior youth worker at Wokingham District Council, said: “Last year’s programme was immensely popular with the young people. They took part in a number of team building exercises, which were designed to be fun, build confidence and raise self-esteem. In addition to the wide variety of outdoor activities, young people were encouraged to participate in other themed activities such as conflict resolution and anger management workshops.

“This year we will be focusing on the theme of ‘healthy lifestyle’ which is part of the Every Child Matters initiative. The entire programme has been designed with the aim of providing a positive experience that will help young people on their journey from childhood to adulthood.”

The cost of the residential course is £80 per person which will includes all activities, transport, accommodation and food. Day visits will cost £10 per person including transport and activities. With only a few places left, applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a place contact Candice Wright on (0118) 979 7915 or email candice.wright@wokingham.gov.uk. A £10 non-refundable booking fee is required for the residential scheme and a £5 booking fee for the day visits.

Cllr Malcolm Bryant, champion for Wokingham youth and leisure, said; “It promises to be a great summer for the district’s young people. Many of the district’s youth centres are offering summer schemes including residential trips, football tournaments, BBQs and much, much more.

“And, over 2,500 children and young people will also be taking part in the sports development unit’s summer holiday programme which will include multi-sports courses, football competitions, play schemes, athletics, tennis and ‘kwick’ cricket courses. There is something for everyone this summer!”

Wokingham District Council