Without the Programme I most probably wouldn’t be where I am today!
Harry was referred to the Youth Adventure Trust following a difficult start to Year 7. He stood out for saying inappropriate things to students and staff and seemed to not understand the implications or consequences of what he said. He was desperate to be liked and thought that being outspoken would earn him friends. The reality was that this, alongside angry outbursts when things did not go his way, caused him huge difficulties in making friendships.
Harry had a remarkable journey with the Youth Adventure Trust with school commenting on how enthusiastic and fully committed he was to the programme. YAT staff saw Harry become a respectful and polite young person who took a mature approach to any task that he was set. Harry spent some time reflecting on his time with us during the last stage of the programme and whilst acknowledging that ‘controlling [his] behaviour’ had been one of the most challenging aspects for him, he learnt that he ‘can get along with lots of people’ and will always remember the friends that he has made.
Harry is now continuing on a path of adventure, making the most of opportunities available and has successfully applied to the YAT’s new bursary scheme. Harry embarked on an expedition to Madagascar with the Scouts this summer as well as participating in a Duke of Edinburgh expedition. He used his bursary money to wisely invest in a large rucksack which would be suitable for these adventures, carefully considering the necessary requirements and opting for a money belt for his valuables with the remainder of his fund.
Harry shared how appreciative and thrilled he was to receive his bag and money belt:
“I was just writing to say thank you for supporting me in going to Madagascar with the Scouts. Thank you for helping me purchase a new bag and money belt which both came in very handy and were very useful.
I’d also like to thank the Youth Adventure Trust programme for helping me become the person I am today. The programme taught me so much about myself and helped shape what I want to do in the future and without the programme, I most probably wouldn’t have gone to Madagascar and wouldn’t be where I am today. It also helped my make new friends and feel more confident meeting new people.”
We wish Harry all the best with his forthcoming adventures!
