What is YDS?

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YDS (Youth Development Scheme) is a structured volunteering and skills pathway for young people (typically 14–16) delivered through PTP.

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It combines:

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• Watersports skills (SUP, kayaking, canoeing, open water support)

• Water safety and lifesaving awareness

• Leadership and teamwork development

• Real volunteering hours at the lake

• Personal responsibility and professional conduct

 

YDS is not just “helping out” — it is a progressive development programme designed to build employability, resilience, and outdoor competence.

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Why Should We Apply for YDS?

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YDS is ideal if you:

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• Love being outdoors or around water

• Want to build confidence and leadership skills

• Are considering a career in sport, leisure, outdoor education, or emergency services

• Need structured volunteering hours

• Want to gain recognised awards

 

It provides a safe, supported way to gain real-world experience rather than just classroom learning.

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When Can I Start YDS?

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YDS intake usually aligns with:

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• Start of a new season (spring intake is common)

• September school term

• Specific programme launch windows

 

Young people can usually apply from age 14+, subject to water confidence and suitability.

Because PTP runs year-round activity (with adapted winter operations), progression can continue across seasons.

If places are limited, applicants may be placed on a waiting list.

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Can It Support Elements of DofE?

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Yes — very effectively.

 

YDS can support:

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• Volunteering section of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (Bronze, Silver, Gold)

• Skills section (depending on chosen pathway)

• Physical section (if aligned to paddlesport/swimming development goals)

 

We provide:

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• Supervised volunteering hours

• Logbook sign-off

• Clear role descriptions

• Ongoing mentor support

 

This makes it particularly useful for structured DofE completion.

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Cost to Me?

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This depends on structure, but typically includes:

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• Registration fee (if applicable)

• Personal kit requirements

• Qualification costs - Membership fees

• Optional training modules

 

However, YDS is designed to be accessible, and PTP aims to reduce barriers where possible.

Because PTP is moving toward a Community Interest Company model, the intention is to keep youth access inclusive rather than profit-driven.

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What Do I Gain From It?

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1. Confidence

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• Working in real operational environments builds maturity quickly.

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2. Qualifications

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Possible progression into:

• Paddle UK awards

• Safety & Rescue awards

• Lifesaving qualifications

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3. Employability

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• First job pathway within PTP (Lake Assistant roles)

• Strong CV evidence

• Professional references

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4. Leadership Skills

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• Communication

• Risk awareness

• Team responsibility

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5. Community Impact

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• You become part of keeping people safe on the water.

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In Summary

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YDS is:

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• Structured

• Supervised

• Progressive

• Practical

• Career-relevant

 

It bridges the gap between “being a participant” and “becoming a responsible outdoor professional.”

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