Youth Development Scheme (YDS)

Learn. Volunteer. Build Skills. Get Experience.

PTP's Youth Development Scheme (YDS) gives young people aged around 14–16 the opportunity to gain real experience at the lake while developing practical skills, confidence and responsibility.

It's much more than simply "helping out".

You'll learn how an outdoor watersports venue operates, develop your skills on and around the water and become part of the PTP team.

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What Will I Do?

Depending on your experience and progression through the programme, YDS can include:

• Paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing skills

• Water safety and lifesaving awareness

• Helping with activities at the lake

• Leadership and teamwork

• Volunteering hours

• Learning how to work safely and responsibly in an outdoor environment

You'll be supported by the PTP team as you develop your skills and take on more responsibility.

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Who Is YDS For?

YDS could be a great fit if you:

• Love being outdoors or around water

• Want to build your confidence

• Want practical experience rather than just classroom learning

• Need structured volunteering experience

• Are interested in sport, leisure, outdoor education or the emergency services

• Want to develop leadership and teamwork skills

• Would like to work towards further watersports or safety qualifications

You don't need to know exactly what you want to do in the future. YDS is also a chance to try something different, meet people and discover what you're capable of.

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Can YDS Support My Duke of Edinburgh's Award?

YDS may be able to support elements of your Duke of Edinburgh's Award, including structured volunteering and potentially other sections depending on your individual programme.

Where appropriate, PTP can provide supervised volunteering, clearly defined responsibilities, mentoring and evidence of the hours you've completed.

Speak to us before starting so we can make sure your YDS activities are suitable for the section of your DofE you're working towards.

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What Will I Get From YDS?

Confidence

Working alongside the PTP team in a real environment gives you the opportunity to become more independent and confident.

Practical Skills

Develop your knowledge of watersports, water safety and working around an open-water environment.

Experience for Your CV

Build genuine volunteering and work experience that you can talk about when applying for college, university or your first job.

Leadership & Teamwork

Learn how to communicate, work as part of a team, take responsibility and support others.

Opportunities to Progress

As your experience grows, there may be opportunities to work towards relevant Paddle UK, safety, rescue or lifesaving awards.

YDS can also provide a pathway towards future opportunities with PTP, including Lake Assistant roles where suitable.

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When Can I Join?

YDS places are offered at specific points throughout the year, often around the beginning of the main season and the September school term.

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

Places may be limited, so you may be offered a place on a waiting list if the current programme is full.

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How Much Does YDS Cost?

Costs will depend on the programme and any additional training or qualifications you choose to complete.

There may be costs associated with registration, membership, personal kit or optional qualifications.

PTP wants YDS to be as accessible as possible, so if cost could prevent you from taking part, please speak to us.

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Interested in Joining YDS?

If you're a young person interested in joining, or a parent or guardian who would like to find out more, we'd love to hear from you.

APPLY FOR YDS

or

ASK US ABOUT YDS