SUMMER SKILLZ AWARD CEREMONY - PENRHYS

During the summer, whilst many young people were enjoying the summer sunshine, over 40 young people and adults got involved in the Penrhys Partnership Summer Skillz programme. Madam Mayor Joyce Cass and Assembly Member for the Rhondda – Leighton Andrews were delighted to present the awards to the participants at an award ceremony held at Canolfan Rhys Arts and Education Centre.

The programme was developed after consultation with young people in Penrhys and took place over a three week period during the summer months. Traditionally activities have been focused on fun for young people, but many are looking to enter the fields of further education, higher education and employment. The Summer Skillz programme therefore aimed to give opportunities to young people and adults in improving their confidence, self esteem, and raising their personal aspirations and skills achieving their goals.

A variety of training opportunities, such as Brushcutting / Strimming, Food Hygiene, First Aid, Get Cooking, Play Work, Sexual Health and Youth Gateway was undertaken. This was supported by a variety of agencies such as Careers Wales – Youth Gateway, Groundwork Merthyr RCT – Greencare Programme, RCT Fframwaith Partnership, RCT Healthy Living Network and Penrhys Partnership Communities First Programme.

Laura Ackerman – who attended a few of the programmes, and as a result was employed as a Play Worker at the Penrhys Playscheme said “I am more confident to try new things and the training has helped me access a College course. It’s been great to give something back to the community, as I loved it when I was a kid.”

Following the award ceremony, the young people were invited to the Welsh Assembly Government Buildings for a tour, courtesy of Leighton Andrews AM, followed by a visit to the Wales Millennium Centre to attend the Prince’s Trust – RAGE Programme, where young people were able to explore new skills such as urban dance, beat boxing, drumming, DJ’ing etc.

Penrhys Partnership Manager – Wayne Carter said “ this is the first time we have held such an event in recognising the achievements of young people, and the participants and their parents should be very proud. The success of the programme has highlighted the contribution of young people to the community and we hope that with our invaluable support from our partners, that we are able to develop another programme in 2007”

More info: contact Wayne Carter or Julie Edwards on 01443 755008

Or email: penrhys@penrhyspartnership.co.uk

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