Bolton's young people build confidence through outdoor challenges.

A group of eight 16–25 year-olds from Bolton completed the residential week of The King's Trust Team Programme at the Anderton Centre, taking part in activities such as high ropes, archery and axe throwing. The 12-week course, run locally by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, combines team challenges, community projects and work placements and leads to recognised qualifications.

A group of young people from Bolton has just completed the residential week of The King's Trust Team Programme at the Anderton Centre in Rivington. The 12-week employability course is delivered locally by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and is based at Bolton Central Fire Station. Participants are aged 16 to 25 and the programme mixes team challenges, community projects and work placements. The residential activities were chosen to test resilience, problem-solving and teamwork while helping participants build confidence. Key facts: - Eight participants completed the residential week at the Anderton Centre. - Activities included high ropes, archery, raft making and axe throwing to encourage teamwork and emotional management. - The programme includes community projects, two weeks of work experience, CV workshops, mock interviews and presentation practice. - Participants can earn qualifications in Employment, Teamwork and Community Skills at Entry Level 3, Level 1 or Level 2. - Organisers report progression rates around 78–80% into employment, apprenticeships, traineeships, volunteering or further education. - The course runs three times a year and will finish with a presentation evening at Bury Safety Centre where participants will collect certificates in front of civic leaders, including the Mayor of Bolton. Summary: Participants reported increased confidence and new opportunities as they move into the work placement phase of the programme. The team has already gained First Aid at Work, Food Safety and Health & Safety qualifications and will carry out further community projects across Bolton before the course concludes with a presentation evening. Staff described the experience as rewarding for both young people and organisers.