Charity to offer regions youngsters a royal opportunity
by Alex Reynolds 9 Sep 2011 13:45 BST
A regional sail training charity has been given the royal seal of approval after being appointed as an approved activities provider for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The North East’s only sail training organisation Ocean Youth Trust North (OYT North) has now been recognised by the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. This means for the first time that young people can now work towards their award whilst learning valuable life skills on the open ocean.
OYT North is the only sail training organisation based in the region to have been approved as this type of expedition provider, and one of only two DofE expedition providers in the North East.
The staff of OYT North have been working with young people from the north of England for over 10 years, helping them to develop skills such as teamwork, confidence and responsibility, all of which supports the goals of the DofE programme, which aims to teach the value of social thinking and self-development.
Steve Lennon, General Manager of OYT North, said: “We are very proud to be working with the DofE programme to help young people in the region achieve something they can really be proud of.
“Our staff have been helping youngsters in their own personal development for over a decade through sail training, mentoring programmes and providing volunteering opportunities. We help young people to overcome challenges, learn new skills and develop as citizens so that they can fulfil their potential.
“We are delighted to have been given approved provider status by DofE and we hope to help even more young people in the north of England to achieve their ambitions and expand their horizons through this excellent programme.”
OYT North specialises in the personal and social development of young people through the unique medium of Adventure under Sail. It offers safe but exhilarating residential experiences to young people, helping them to discover more about themselves and the world whilst learning new skills.
If you are interested in learning more about Ocean Youth Trust North please visit www.sailjamescook.com. If you would like to book a sailing trip or request further information please email or phone Rachel in the office on 0191 257 1212.