Young People PASS Survival Skills Training

20-1-2010

11 young people from Reading recently got the chance to learn some Bear Grylls style survival techniques when they took part in a Shelter Building and Survival Skills course at the Look Out Discovery Centre in Bracknell. The course, which was run by Wilderness Expertise, gave the young participants the opportunity to learn how to build a weather proof shelter to protect themselves from the elements. They also had a go at orienteering, which taught them useful navigation and map reading skills.

The group of 9 – 15 year olds took part in the two day activity course as part of Connexions Berkshire’s Prevention and Support Service (PASS) project. The Prevention and Support Service project, which is run on behalf of Reading Borough Council by Connexions Berkshire, works with 8 -19 year olds to prevent them from entering the criminal justice system and to support them in making a successful transition into adulthood.

Throughout the Prevention and Support Service project, young people receive tailored 1:1 support, which tackles issues such as anger management, substance misuse and sexual health. They also have the opportunity to be involved in activities that will help them to develop new skills, such as social skills and working as part of a team.

Claire Lewis, Prevention and Support Service Team Leader, said, “The young people who took part in the activity course had a great time and enjoyed doing new things, such as orienteering. Throughout the two days they learned to work together as part of a team, and this valuable transferable skill will really help them in their future personal development. We’d like to thank all the staff at Wilderness Expertise who made it such a worthwhile experience for us all.”

To find out more about Connexions Berkshire’s Prevention and Support Service contact Claire Lewis, Prevention and Support Service Team Leader, on 0118 9376012 or email clairelewis@connexions-berkshire.org.uk