questions? Helping you say 'yes' 

 
How do I sign up?

You can sign up by doing any of the following:

 - submitting a form on the sign up section of this website

 - handing an expression of interest form to the NCS team when they come to speak at your school

 - going to your local provider's website and submitting a form

 - if you've already been given a sign up form, you can post it back to your provider or phone your local provider.

 

 
What is NCS?

NCS is an inclusive, part-residential programme for years 11 and 12 that takes place across the country. The programme is made up of four sections that will help you develop your leadership, teamwork and communication skills. You put these into practice when you run your own project in your local community with your teammates. Your team is made up of 12-15 people and a mentor, who’s there to point you all in the right direction. After graduation, you’ll become a member of our graduate scheme.

 
When does it run?

In 2013 we have various programme dates available in spring, summer and autumn, all outside term time.

 
Is it safe?

All local NCS providers are selected through a vigorous assessment process where they have to show experience of running youth programmes while meeting the safety and risk management requirements set out in the government contracts. All staff are CRB checked and trained to deliver NCS and all activities are overseen by qualified instructors.  

 
Who can take part?

Whether you are at school or not, if you are 16-17 years old in England, you can take part.

 
Does academic background matter?

No. NCS is an inclusive programme, open to anyone of the right age.

 
Will I have to have done any of the activities before?

No. The programme is designed to suit all people, from different backgrounds, regardless of what experience they have with any of the activities.

 
Can I still do NCS if my school isn’t doing it or if I miss the school presentation?

Yes, if you live in an area which runs NCS you can sign up yourself by following the instructions under the 'How do I sign up' section. 

 
Is there a deadline for signing up?

Applications are open throughout the year until places on the programme fill up, so we advise you to sign up as quickly as possible so you don't miss out.

 
How long will I be away from home?

You will be away from home for 8-9 residential nights, usually with a few days off in the middle.

 
Do I have to attend every section or can I just do some of them?

You can't just do one or two of the weeks on NCS, you have to take part in the whole programme to graduate. If you need to miss individual days within the different sections, you'll have to discuss these with your local provider at the application stage.

 
Can I do NCS but not have to stay residentially?

The idea of NCS is that everyone stays residentially. If you have circumstances which do not allow you to do this but you still want to take part, contact your local provider to discuss the possibilities with them.

 
Will it cost me anything?

The only cost to take part will be a small payment, a maximum of £50, paid at application stage.  Once you are on the programme all your costs, including food, transport and equipment will be covered. 

 
What if I can’t afford it?

If you can't afford the payment and this is preventing you from taking part in NCS, contact your local provider as they will have a bursary scheme. It is very important to us that NCS is available to everyone who is the right age, so do discuss the options with your local provider.

 
Is food included?

Yes, all your meals will be covered while you are on the programme. 

 
What happens if I pick a date and then change my mind?

You should contact your local provider (who you spoke to when signing up) as soon as you know that you can't make the programme. They will be able to discuss alternative dates with you or see what arrangements they can make for you.