OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE: YOUTH SERVICES 21/22

1.Young Achievers:
These awards go to our primary and special need schools in our area and gives them the opportunity to recognise the achievement of a pupil who has excelled against all odds and made a distinct effort to further his or her own ambitions and contributed to school life. 

Despite the problems arising from the pandemic, preparations are well under way for the awards to be presented at the end of the current school year.

 
2. John Vardy Memorial Awards
The award is presented in recognition of the all-round contribution to the life of the school by students, who will be advancing to higher education or University. This award is given to a pupil from each of our two local high schools, in honour of our founder President John Vardy OBE. The presentation of the award gives the students the opportunity to visit the club and present to us their ambitions and goals for the future. It is hoped that in 2022, the science award at Hope Academy will be reinstated. Plans are in hand to present the awards for Golborne High School and Hope Academy, based on “A” level results in September.

 
3 Young Chef Competition.
This competition encourages a healthy lifestyle, an understanding about natural ingredients and recipes. It also challenges students to follow recipes and keep precise budgets. All of which are important life skills.

 
4 Youth Speaks
This competition involves a team of 3 pupils entering a structured argument on topical subjects. It is hoped that one of our high schools will host the local heat. Sir Edmund Arrowsmith School, and Byrchall High in Ashton will also be invited to participate.

 
5 Young Photographer Competition
No competition was held last year and it is hoped to re-introduce the competition in this Rotary year.

 
6.Excitement of Science
An excellent opportunity for young scientists from secondary schools to experience a lecture at a university and at the same time learn more about a subject they are interested in.
The event helps to promote science as a vocation at a time when young scientists are in demand. It encourages them to study the subject with a view to attending university to further their education. It is a one -off opportunity which can make a lasting impression on a young person’s life.

 
7 Urban Kids Go Outdoors- Pettypool Centre
Events this year prevented us from sending any children to this centre. We are proposing to sponsor a primary school class from our area to a fun day out at the Petty pool Centre, which is a Rotary approved adventure centre. The children will go out into the countryside, engage in team-building activities and develop their confidence.
This is a splendid opportunity for deserving children to experience a trip out of area and realise their potential whilst enjoying themselves.   

8 Art Competition
Devised to encourage and support pupils at infant level. This project assists their development and aids their integration into school life. It allows them to show their abilities through the use of colours in art. The designs are thought provoking to encourage further integration into being good citizens.
Although it was not possible to hold the competition this year, it is important that we continue with this project, as it is the only involvement we have at this age group.

9 Rotary Young Citizens
In 2020/21 we submitted 5 entries, and the entrants received certificates from Rotary Great Britain and Ireland. In addition, the Club presented vouchers of £25 to each recipient. We intend to seek entries for this year’s competition.

 10. Young Environmentalist 
For something new, we wish to discover more about this competition to encourage young people to address environmental issues and explore solutions.

 
Summary 
The 2021-2022 programme covers a broad spectrum of ages, between 5-18 years, from our local schools. Our aims are to be inclusive for all young people of all back grounds and abilities.
Working with young people is a truly way to promote the work of Rotary in our community. It fosters relationships with young people, educational institutions, their parents and carers. Ultimately it gives young people experiences, challenges and recognition that they would not otherwise have had.
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Les Clancy
Chair of the Youth Services Committee