They tasted different Chinese dishes and made crafts relating to the Chinese New Year. Pictures are here:

During my year of office I have recieved a £300 grant for Westbury Youth Centre's multi media room, met with Dr Andrew Murrison MP to discuss concession fares on transport to 18, attended countless meetings on behalf of other young people which include UKYP South West, Wiltshire Assembly of Youth, Wiltshire Youth Services Council, BA13 Community partnership, Westbury area boards and CAYPIGS.

I have also attended the UK Youth Parliament Annual sitting where I raised a motion on making euthanasia legal this features on the 2011-2012 UK Youth Parliament manifesto and I also attended the UK Youth Parliament House of Commons debate.

I put my all into UKYP and WAY and it always comes first. I would love to continue this work on your behalf.

You can elect me by texting Elect Ellie to 80800.

Dancers from Westbury Youth Development Centre and Fairfield Opportunity Farm College have been part of P.O.P Youth Dance Project for a number of years now and have been working extremely hard to create dance works for performance events such as DanceXpress (County platform), Dance Fresh (Salisbury Event) & THE Event (Youth Service Celebration). 

This is the first time we have had a Youth Centre dance group representing the County at a regional level so this is a really exciting time for them. 

It is a great achievement for this Integrated Dance Group to be performing at U.Dance South West...CONGRATULATIONS and Good luck!

If you would like to get tickets to support the group during their performance on 18th March then please get in touch with Corinna Cuff.

One of the films produced was called Beloved, written by a young man who was attending a local LGBT youth support group.  The film is a beautiful tale of unrequited love.

This film is doing really well at young people's film festivals nationally and internationally and we feel it is a really great piece of work to get people talking and thinking about the issues faced by LGBT young people.

We are really pleased because the film has been nominated for an audience award for the First Light Awards in March.

And this is why we need your help: we need votes for it to win.  It would be wonderful if Beloved won, so we’re hoping you will enjoy watching the film and will pass it on to everyone you know and any LGBT groups you work with etc etc and we can scoop the award and hopefully do a little bit for LGBT young people by putting this film out there. 

Watch and vote here:  http://www.firstlightonline.co.uk/fl-awards/#award-208

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio..... cool way to share music and awesome for young people to get involved in the community.
 
Turn ons........ good music, ed sheeran, young artists, singer/songwriters, live music, acoustic unplugged. banter. Rugger, footy.
 
Turn Offs  screamo, metal, school, rain,
Fav Music.......  Ed sheeran olly murs rizzle kicks Katy perry paramore green day boyce avenue bluey robinson Rihanna chris brown david guetta
Cheers, Hugh and Sam

Catch Sam and Hugh live on Spark Tuesdays 5-6pm
 
 

The competition asks young people to research smoking, make a short film about it for their friends, upload to the national competition and share it on their social media. It’s their take on the issues associated with the dangers of smoking.

The Deborah Hutton Campaign who are running the Cut Films competition was set up in memory of Deborah Hutton who was health editor at Vogue for over 20 years.  In 2004 Deborah Hutton was diagnosed with Stage IV advanced lung cancer. She died eight months later aged just 49. Deborah smoked when she a teenager, tried her first cigarette when she was 12, smoked regularly from 17 and gave up aged 24.

Charity director Emma Wrafter said: “It’s a fact that two-thirds of smokers start smoking before the age of 18. And in England alone 150,000 young people aged between 11-15 are regular smokers. When we still have 100,000 people dying each year in the UK from smoking related illnesses, talking to young people about the risks is vital."

The project lets young people do the research and make up their own mind. Issues like plain packaging are important for young people to understand because the choices they make will impact on their health. Films are important to inspire creativity and choice in young people.

Will Best fronts three short films (see below), which also double as educational resources. The film on plain packaging discuses the visual impact advertising could have on cigarette brand choice for young people.   

T4 youth presenter Will comments: “The Deborah Hutton Campaign and their Cut Films project is fantastic. It actually gives young people some credit, and asks for their voice and their views on smoking. And, most importantly, it gives young people the chance to do something genuinely creative to make a difference to their lives, and then celebrates that creativity.
This isn't about adults telling them what to do. It's a short film competition in which young people do the research and make the films for their friends.” 

The Cut Films national short film competitions closing date is Friday 20 April 2012. Voting for the films closes on Monday 30 April 2012. Prizes include Kindles, IPods, festival tickets and more.

For information and to enter visit www.cutfilms.orgYou Tube channel - www.youtube.com/cutfilmscampaign

Will Best Plain Packaging film
www.cutfilms.org/plainpackaging

Will Best Anti-Smoking Film

www.cutfilms.org/badstuff

Will Best Short Film Competition

www.cutfilms.org

26 young people, aged between 11 and 19, have put themselves forward to represent and communicate your views, concerns and achievements, both locally to your MPs and other key Wiltshire Council stakeholders, and nationally as part of the UK Youth Parliament.

During election week, you will be offered the chance to elect your newest local WAY and UKYP members based on their manifesto pledges, and the official election campaign posters with all the details of who is standing in your area will be coming out to your school, college and youth centre very shortly.

When lines open you can cast your vote by sending a single text message to 80800 with the word  ‘elect…’ followed by the name of your chosen candidate.

A single text vote is free of charge, after that no further votes from that mobile telephone number will be counted and if you try and vote twice you may be charged, so please remember:

 ONE PHONE = ONE VOTE.

If you don't have access to a mobile phone you can use your local youth worker's phone to cast your vote.  

You can find the candidates standing in your region and read their manifestos in the PDF download opposite. 

Last year Wilsthire had the largest turn-out of young voters anywhere in the country with 33,000 votes cast, but we know we can do even better!!! 

Get ready, it's nearly time to make your mark... 

For more information about the 2012 WAY and UKYP elections please contact Hayley Bambrough-Bailey on 01249 652185 or email hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk

However, I can’t achieve this without YOUR help! I need your votes and opinions to be able to make the much needed changes, both in Wiltshire and the UK. Unlike other candidates, I will not tell you what I’m going to do; I will ask you what YOU want me to do. I will not solely put forward my own opinions, but will attempt to be a messenger for YOUR views and thoughts. This is why my manifesto was created by asking YOU what you most wanted changed about where you lived, so that together we can create a better Wiltshire, and a better UK. So, if you want YOUR voice to be heard, text: elect Livvy to 80800 on the 6^th-12^th of February. To find out more about what issues I would like to address if I were I elected, please see my manifesto. I am really looking forward to hopefully representing you all.

The concert, which is expected to attract thousands, will be held in Hudson’s Field in Salisbury.

Wiltshire Council is using Facebook and You Tube as platforms for performers to showcase their talents to find the Wiltshire act that will appear on the main stage at the event.

The event, which is being organised by the council, will include showcasing local talent throughout the day and evening, culminating in one act selected to support a national headline act, which will be announced by LOCOG next month.

The deadline for entries is February 26, 2012. From February 29, people will be able to vote for the act they want to see perform at the festival. 

The competition ‘Shine 4 Wiltshire’ is open to individuals and groups of any age who live in Wiltshire. In order to enter the contest, entrants must email the council with a link to a You Tube video displaying their talent. This can include bands, orchestra, singers, choirs, theatre performers or dance/acrobatic groups.

The performance must be suitable for a family audience. 

Following the February 26 deadline, entries will be placed on the council’s 2012 Celebration Facebook page for people to view and vote for their favorites. The number one act with the most votes will perform alongside a national headline act to be announced on February 14.

Leader of Wiltshire Council, Jane Scott, said: “There will be lots of opportunities during the 2012 celebrations to showcase the talent we have in Wiltshire. The torch coming to the county and the event in Salisbury will be highlights this year and we want to give local people the opportunity to be part of this.

“We urge acts of all ages to get in touch for this once in a lifetime opportunity to perform in front of a massive audience. All are welcome to enter no matter what their talent or act as long as it is suitable for family viewing.”

Hopefuls can audition online now by emailing 2012celebrations@wiltshire.gov.uk with a link to their You Tube video.

Competition details are available on the Wiltshire Year of Celebration Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/wiltshire2012

 Who I Am And Where I Am From

Hi! I'm Parka, i'm 20 years old i've been a spark radio present for 3 years now! I live around the Salisbury/ Southampton area. 

Your Thoughts On Spark Radio

Spark radio is one of the best things thats happened, not just to me but to the local community! Over the years i have varied my shows from hardcore punk, metal too liquid drum and bass to dubstep. I try my best to play local, under the radar bands and from time to time i'll do a live d.j'ing set...just for good measure!

Turn Ons

I spend most my time either working, getting tattooed, spending time with my mates or in my bedroom dj'ing! 

Catch Parka Tuesdays 7-8pm on Spark Radio

Who I am and where I'm from.... My name is Chris Baker, born and bred in Salisbury


Your thoughts on Spark Radio..... A Brilliant way for youngsters to get an active involvement in radio and music, I have so many opportunities from it, DJing a youth event in Warminster to a Day In Radio course at Castledown Radio. And presenting live events at fetes and college open evenings

Turn ons........ Massive tracks, remixes, minimixes and music creating amazing eargasms.


Turn offs....... Metal, Screamo, Pop Punk, and my off switch


Fav Music...... My music taste is extremely widespread, from mainstream dance and house to Electro Swing and Techno. Massive fan of DJ’s such as Chuckie, Swedish House Mafia, Laidback Luke and Kissy Sell Out

Catch Chris Tuesdays 8-9 pm

Well why not get involved and volunteer?

If you've got the time, we've got the activities!

Get in touch with Sarah Howes, 07717782529 or e-mail sarah.howes@wiltshire.gov.uk

Thoroughly Modern Millie is a musical about a young girl from Kansas (Millie Dillmount) who travels to New York in search for a new life for herself. The play is set in 1922 so the main dance craze is the Charleston. Through the play Millie discovers that fame, fortune and love are harder to find than she thought.

The role of Millie was played by Alice More, the role of Jimmy (Millie’s secret admirer and secret millionare!) was played by Ben Cipolla, Miss Dorothy (Millie’s new best friend and orphan) was played by Emma Whitworth. The role of Miss Meer’s,  the evil Chinese villan and owner of Hotel Pricilla (a hotel for aspiring actors) was played by Sarah Crookhall. She steels orphaned girls staying at the hotel and sends them to Japan to sell them as slaves.

The part of Mr Graydon ( Millie’s boss and her “future Husband”, that’s how Millie sees him) was played by Duncan Lorrain, the role of Muzzy Van Hossmere (a famous Performer) was played by Luci Budd, The role of Miss Flannery (A stern lady who works at the front desk at  Millie’s new job) she was played by Nancy Smith.  The two fools of the play were Ching How and Bun Foo, they were the Chinese henchman of Miss Meers, they could not speak a word of English!  were played by Connor Ford

(Ching How) and Tom Rogerson (Bun Foo) they made me and everyone else in the theatre laugh out loud!

The director of the performance was Max More he was also the music director, Steve Tapper was the producer, Andrea Smith was the choreographer and Tess Ellison was the Acting director. 

Special appearances were from Ann Marr: Daphne and Steve Tapper: Dexter, they made the whole audience laugh!

St John's performance on “Thoroughly Modern Millie” was ‘thoroughly’ entertaining! The quality of acting, dancing and singing was very high and the set design was very good. I think that the performance showed everyone just how much talent St John's has.                    

Formed and how: Through love, because we like metal and its fun to play.

Style of music: Heavy metal (a genre from the future)

Favourate conver songs: New groove - Periphery

Favourate original songs: Pentinance

Gigs/events played: None

Aspirations: To play over slipknot.

Formed and how: Started out with original members; Matt and Ross. Ollie then joined along with Jacob. Then, with some line up changes , Rob joined to play as a second giutarist. The first members met at school.

Style of music: Rock/ Metal

Favourate cover songs: Iron Maidern - The Trooper

Favourate original songs: We're still working on song names, but we have a song called 'World so Easy' and a few untitled songs.

Gigs/events played: None yet, other than some private performances.

Aspirations: To get known!

Websites/contacts: Simplicityiscomplicated@hotmail.co.uk  -07720326222

Formed and how: Through school

Style of music: Rock/ Punk Rock

Favourate cover songs: Famous last words, East Jesus Nowhere

Favourate original songs: Angle of attack, Halfway

Gigs/events played: Bemerton Heath Funday

Aspirations: To be a succesful band

Websites/Contacts: facebook@ALONEINYOURCROWD

Postion: Vocals/ Guitar

Favourate Colour: Mustard

Food: Chicken

Drink: Water

Movie: Stuart Little

Band: Lower than Atlantis

Hero/Heroine: Jake Taylor

Love: Food

Hate: Band Bio's

Formed and how: All new to sixth form, and played together a few times

Style of Music: Punk/ Rock

Favourate cover songs: 1985, Gaybar, Smells like teen spirit, Anything by Blink 182

Favourate original songs: What do i know, Just us, Witches

Gigs/events played: Charity gigs - E.G. Champions, Bournmouth, 'The Unit' gigs - ANY LOUDER and The Unit Showcase, in Craig's Conservatory, BAM! GIG!, Numerous open mic's

Aspirations: To have our own mexican tribute band!

Websites/contacts: www.facebook.co.uk/average.at.best

Position: God

Favourate colour: Madjenta

Book: 'Lets talk about Sex'

Author: J.K. Rowling

Food: Everything

Drink: Sugary naughty things

Place: Out of the Window

Movie: The Human Centerpide

Song: Girls just wanna have fun

Band: Blondie

Hero/heroine: Jesus

Number: 7, 107

Love: Playing Pokemon

Hate: Band Bios's

Position: Lead Guitarist

Favourate colour: Mirror

Book: Djent

Food: Drink

Drink: Food

Place: Home

Movie: Titanic

Song: Edge of the Earth

Band:Volumes

Hero/Heroine: Spider man

Love: Brook

Position: Bassist

Book: Bible

Author: God etc.

Food: Chips

Drink: Beer, Vodka, etc.

Place: Jeruselum

Movie: Passion of the Christ

Song: Hallelujah

Band: God, Sex Pistols, Brokencyde

Number: (32.68) PIE

Love: My Wife

Hate: My Wife

Position: Drummer

Favourate colour: White

Food: I dont eat

Drink: Water

Place: The moon

Movie: Moon

Number: 00

Formed and how: Ben, Kieran and Ash started the band. Ollie joined in the summer and Helena joined a few weeks after.

Style of music: Like You Me At Six

Favourate cover songs: Contagious Chemistry, Folding stars

Favourate original songs: Structure, Burying pictures

Gigss/events played: Conrans Irish Bar x2, Costa Coffee, Guava.

Aspirations: Gig more, write more and record more!

Websites/contacts: facebook.com/Tides

Over the last few years the issue of young people's emotional wellbeing and mental health has come up by many young people across the county.  Rather than have lots of separate solutions or campaigns, young people from Wiltshire Assembly of Youth (WAY) have decided to hold a conference to look at the issues and how we can move things forward for young people in Wiltshire.

The conference 'Be Kind To Your Mind' is being held at the Corn Exchange in Devizes on 17 February 2012, 10.00 am till 3.00 pm.  We are aiming to get young people from every community area in Wiltshire attending along with professionals working within the field of Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health.

The aim of the day is to positively look at what is currently available in Wiltshire; examine the range of issues that young people experience with regards to emotional wellbeing and mental health, and to try to develop some solutions.

The idea of the conference is not for young people to just complain about services, but to actively work to develop services; work out ways to better promote the support that is available and see how we can get past the stigma that is currently associated with mental health. 

A range of workshops will take place throughout the day that will enable young people to put their views across and influence the people that make the decisions, but also become more informed themselves. The workshops are:

 - The Knowledge: Testing young people's general knowledge of mental health and mental health issues

- Challenging Stigma: Making it easier for young people to ask for help

- Ask a Question: What help, support and Information is available in Wiltshire

- Let's talk stress: What stresses you out and positive ways to refocus the mind.

Furthermore, the day will work towards developing a 'Young Minds Matter' Charter for Schools, Youth centres etc... and there will be some consultation around what should be included in this.

We guarantee a good lunch and refreshments will be available throughout the day.

Please contact hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk or Tel: 01249 652185 to secure your place at the conference or if you have any questions.

Here are the pictures of the group presenting the application at the meeting.

At that meeting everyone present will vote on the projects and influence how money is allocated.

Application forms and funding criteria are downloadable here.

If anyone has any questions or needs help to develop their ideas into an application, please contact our Community Area Manager, Victoria Welsh victoria.welsh@wiltshire.gov.uk 01249 706 446.

Formed and how: Being Awesome

Style of music: Rock/ Pop

Favourate cover songs: N/A

Favourate original songs: All of them

Gigs/events played: Camden Barfly, Southampton Joiners

Aspirations: I wish i could move like Micheal Jackson.

Websites/contacts: facebook.com/thesedaysrock

The last session in Ludgershall will be Wednesday 21 December and we'll open again on Thursday 5 January 2012.

The last session in Tidworth will be Monday 19 December and we'll be back on Monday 9 January 2012.

Enjoy the Christmas Holidays, see you all in the New Year! 

Paige, 14, from Ludgershall took the lead on making cards, setting up stalls and selling the cards 

The home made cards went down well at local events including the Tidworth Area Board meeting, the Tidworth Community Area Conference and Wellington Academy Craft Fair. 

In total we have raised £112 and have plans to make cards for other events such as Valentines Day, Mother's Day and Birthdays next year.

You can sign the petition online here or download a paper version from this page.

Please publiscise the petition and help us get as many signatures as possible!

Are you in Year 12 and things aren't working out as you hoped?

Have you changed your mind or not chosen the right course?

Start a course at Wiltshire College in January 2012 and make the most of this year by achieving a qualification!

Check out their courses

We have opportunities for -

•  Environmental and Rural Craft Volunteers- Working alongside youth workers to support groups of young people on path clearing, fence and stile construction, repair of public benches or tend allotments all in beautiful countryside.

• Support Volunteers - working with individual young people to help them build their social skills, find the training or job they need.

• Social Enterprise Champions - to support the development of a social enterprise project with young people at its centre.

If you have your own transport, between half a day to up to three days a week to offer and want to see young people succeed and local communities benefit please ring Project Coordinator Mark Holden on 01747 871454 or 07785 458186. For written details and application form please go to www.do-it.org.uk .

 Full induction given, expenses paid and CRB check required.                          

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....since ive been doing spark ive leart alot about music and how stuff works so spark is a briliant thing to do

Turn ons........ good music clubbing just an all round socialight love going out and meeting new people and doing the odd 2 - 3 track set with some djs  

Turn Offs  bad chart music such as one direction

Fav Music.......  angerfist avicii all good club music also depends on what mood im in its ushaly a good mood.

It is special because:

It is led by young people
It is all about young people’s human rights
It gathers young people’s views and helps them take action on their rights.

Our interactive website provides young people with lots of information about their rights, and support for getting involved in campaigning for change at local and national levels. It is a place for them to share their views, experiences and ideas, and to identify ways of pushing for change around children’s rights.

Have a look at www.getreadyforchange.org.uk and read the latest news......

The band met each other at school and decided to make a band by jokingly saying ‘let's just make a band'. ‘We all sat in a maths class when we decided to make a band. We didn't think about it much but since we started we have become more serious about our music'.

This is the bands first competition but has many planned for next year and this December. ‘We hope the more we play the more better we will become. We all want and need the experience so this is good for us'.

The band whom consist of singer Katrina, guitarist Benny, drummer Alana, bass guitarist Andrew, and guitarist Jonny, were all stood around me outside in the cold air. They were currently competing for the best band and to become part of a band exchange of coming to England.

The band told me that they are inspired by band Paramore. ‘We haven't known each other for long but it's worked out for us. We didn't think we would get this far but we have'.

Talking about the bands history we begun to talk about the band's name and where it came from. ‘ we think in life everyone is queens in their own way but also everyone is a servant to each other. We all have a higher hold on us in life. We liked how this was so true in life so we decided to call our band Queens under servants'.

Going to talk about the bands future and what they will do next singer Katrina speaks up. ‘We plan to keep recording our music. We have a friend who helps us record and edit it. We wouldn't be anywhere if it wasn't for him'.

The band unfortunately didn't win the competition but are looking forward to playing at other gigs.

The band whom consist of singer Malte B, guitarist Marius, drummer Malte H, guitarist Julian, and bass guitarist Eric. The band was currently competing for the best band and to become part of a band exchange of coming to England.

Talking about the bands history we begun to talk about the band's name and where it came from.

‘We think neon is art, paint is art, and music is art so it all just made sense. We were all thinking of names and these were the two that complimented each other. We just like to have fun together when we play and we help each other become better as a band. It feels good'.

Talking about the bands future and what they will do next singer Malte B answers. ‘We plan to play at other gigs and become better as a band. We can only play at our best so that is what we will give'.

The band unfortunately didn't win the competition but are looking forward to playing at other gigs and having fun as a band.

The band whom consist of singer and guitarist Jan, drummer Yannick, bass guitarist Hauke, and singer and guitarist Alex. ‘We have all been playing solo for about 4-5 years before forming a band'.

They were currently competing for the best band and to become part of a band exchange of coming to England.

The band told me that they are inspired by bands Linkin park, the wombats, and 30 seconds to mars. ‘This is our first gig but we feel as if we are ready to get ourselves known'.

Talking about the bands history we begun to talk about the band's name and where it came from. ‘It sums up our life history from the last band we formed. The last band we had ended in such a suffering heart ache and we knew forming a new band would stop all that suffering. Suffering exit made sense to all of us. It is like an end to our old band'.

Going to talk about the bands future and what they will do next singer and guitarist Alex answers. ‘We hope to play at other gigs and become better in ourselves. We want to become a known band and play all over the world'.

The band unfortunately didn't win the competition but are looking forward to playing at other gigs.

This is the bands first competition but has played at previous small gigs. ‘This has been the best competition we saw so we decided to take part and show everyone our best'.

The band that consist of singer and guitarist Jannik, drummer Benjamin, guitarist Maximilian, and bass guitarist Jonathon, they were currently competing for the best band and to become part of a band exchange of coming to England.

The band told me that they are inspired by pop punk bands Sum 41, Blink 82, and All time low.

Talking about the bands history we begun to talk about the band's name and where it came from.

‘We were all saying random words in our bedroom and after quite a while we all started to talk about our habits. We all had habits so we thought it would be a good name and give it an edge'.

Going to talk about the bands future and what they will do next bass guitarist Jonathon speaks up. ‘We plan to keep recording our music. We are looking forward to playing at future gigs and hope that one day we will play in England'.

The band unfortunately didn't win the competition but are looking forward to playing at other gigs.

The band whom consist of singer Andy, guitarist Nico, Drummer Alex, and guitarist Delf, were all sat beside me on a blue sofa at the November beats in Hamburg. They were currently competing for the best band and to become part of a band exchange of coming to England. We were currently surrounded by other competitors chatting away with one another. The band looked very casual as the questions were given.

The band told me how they like to record their music and upload it onto their website to try and get their music heard. ‘We like to try different styles and see what fits in with our personal styles'. They told me how they were planning to becoming a well known band, ‘we have the opportunity to compete in this competition. It's quite exciting really as you don't know who's lurking in the crowd so you have to perform at your best'.

Talking about the bands history we begun to talk about the band's name and where it came from. ‘At the time of naming the band we just had to go with Mango Dip as we all like the taste, it just had to be'. Asking the band who first started out they all point at guitarist Delf and drummer Alex.

‘We were both in our own band so we have been playing together for a much longer period than the rest of the group. When we saw Andy he asked if we would like to join his band so we thought it would be a good experience'.

Looking at the time the band tells me I have 5 more minutes of their time.

Going on to talk about the band's inspirations and how they come up with their material, singer Andy decides to speak up. ‘When I first got interested in music I liked Ballet so I think I was inspired from that as it got me more interested in different kinds of music. With the music and lyrics the music always comes first as we think it is easier to create than lyrics'.

The band won the competition and now has the chance to visit England and play at one of their gigs.

They were on Countryfile and talked about the Leisure Credits scheme.  The young people were interviewed by Ellie and they talked about how they work in the community to earn credits which go towards trips out.

Watch the fantastic footage here - they are all superstar's now! 

Due to the BBC Copywrite we are unable to download just the clip but if you click the link you will then be able to view the programme.  It is the full programme but well worth watching....

Click - www.bbc.co.uk/countryfile

Wednesday Drop In Club  - Have your say in what activities we put on for Club members !

Last drop in of 2011 is  7th December, then WEEKLY from 4th January 2012

7.15pm-8.45pm.  £1.00 per session.  Pool, Table Tennis, X Box, Wii, Squash, cooking.

Cheap tuck shop (extra cost)  Get your entrance ticket at reception on the night

Archery - 8 week course (£8.00)

Tuesdays January 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st,  February 7th, 21st, 28th & March 13th  2012

 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Rock Climbing - 4 week course (£4.00)

Tuesdays January 3rd, March 6th, 20th, 27th 2012  7.30pm - 8.30pm

Rock Climbing - weekly (£1.00)

Thursday 5th January 2012 - Thursday 30th August 2012  

6.45pm-7.45pm and 7.45pm-8.45pm

Power Kiting - 7 week course (£7.00)

Tuesday 17th April 2012 -Tuesday 29th May 2012  6pm - 8pm

Manchester United Football Weekend for boys - March 2nd to 4th 2012 - At PGL Liddington near Swindon. £120.00

IF YOU WANT TO GO, PUT YOUR NAME DOWN BEFORE 14TH DEC 2011 (OR I WILL HAVE TO CANCEL).

We need 10 boys to guarantee a booking.

Street Dance Weekend for Girls

Friday 18th May 2012 - Sunday 20th May 2012 -at PGL Marchants Hill, Surrey - age 10 ½ + (3 days) £70.00

Half Term Mountain Boarding - 2 day course (£10.00)

Wednesday 6th June and Thursday 7th June 2012 - afternoons 1.30pm - 4.30pm

Mountain Biking - 5 week course (£5.00)

 Wednesday 13th June - Wednesday 11th July 2012  6pm - 8pm

T2A Residential at PGL Liddington, Swindon

Tuesday 24th July - Friday 27th July 2012 - Age 13 + (4 days) £100.00

Surfing, Beach and Multi Sports Activities Residential, PGL Beam House, North Devon

Wednesday 8th August - Friday 10th August 2012 - Age 10 ½ to 13 years (3 days) £80.00

Please note that the cost of the residentialshas been heavily subsidised.  Payments can be made in monthly instalmentsif preferred. 

NOTE - YOUNG PEOPLE WISHING TO DO T2A ACTIVITIES NEED TO BE T2A MEMBERS (£5.00) AND HOLD A TIDWORTH LEISURE CENTRE CARD (£5.50).

Phone TIDWORTH LEISURE CENTRE 01980 847140 to REGISTER,or phone Joyce 07810771630 or Angie 07770423521 for more info.

More activities will be added depending on the input of the youth forum and requests from the young people.

Young people from about 15 primary schools, 3 secondary schools and the Chippenham CAYPIG attended - representatives from the different schools (mostly school council members) were there to give their views on life in Chippenham and how it could be improved.

Young people were welcomed to the day by Judy Edwards, Extended Schools Coordinator for Chippenham. The Mayor for Chippenham also introduced himself, and extended an invitation to all schools in Chippenham to invite him into their schools to talk about the town council and listen to their views. The mayor was very much open to going out to schools- so why not get your school to invite him?

The Wiltshire Council Voice and Influence Team delivered 2 workshops to the young people - one based on the Youth Strategy for Chippenham and the other on A Vision(s) for Chippenham. Young people were asked to think about the 3 most important things they would like to see in Chippenham, whether it is important that young people have a say in local decisions and what would make Chippenham more appealing to local people.

Throughout the day young people were also asked to put their comments on a 'graffiti wall' about what is good in Chippenham and what is not so good (Check out some of their comments on the pictures attached).

The day was closed by the Leader of the Council, Jane Scott who congratulated the Children's Parliament for their work on a road safety DVD, and presented them with a cheque for £200 for their work in the community.

The feedback from the day is attached (word document). Check it out! If you have a view on Chippenham that you think has not been recorded, please let Christina Gregory know on christina.gregory@wiltshire.gov.uk.

The Chippenham Young Peoples Forum will keep you updated with how they are getting on. The next meeting is in February- so if you have anything that you would like them to discuss then let us know on lcp@chippenhamlcp.org.

10-12pm at Devizes Youth Development Centre (term time only). 

For all young people who would like practical job seeking (full/part time or apprenticeships) support and information on college courses and local opportunities. It is an open session and people can come and go as they please.

Strictly 'Invitation Only'.  

Details from Devizes YDC or Nicola on 07768 033278 or email Nicola.sage@Wiltshire.gov.uk.

It is hoped that young people with come up with projects which create an opportunity for them to learn new skills, be creative and have fun with groups of people they might not normally mix with. Projects can involve working alongside adults and might involve helping others; carrying out conservation work or on an arts project.

Funding will be allocated by public vote at the Malmesbury Area Board on Wednesday, 7 March 2012 following short 2-3 minute presentations given by young people about their ideas.

Funding criteria, application form and guidance are attached.  Bids of up to  £2,000 can be applied for each project by the deadline, Friday, 13 January 2012.

If you have any questions or need help to develop your idea, please contact either Gareth Brown at Malmesbury Youth Development Centre on 01666 823747 or email Gareth.brown@wiltshire.gov.uk or Miranda Gilmour, Community Area Manager on 01672 515742 or email miranda.gilmour@wiltshire.gov.uk

Monday:
5-6pm - David Hillier
6-7pm - Martin Brown & Kate Hall
7-8pm - Thomas Rawson
8-9pm - Jack and Ben

 
Tuesday:
5-6pm - Nick
6-7pm - Girls Hour with Sadie & Lisa
7-8pm - Parka
8-9pm - Chris
 
Wednesday:
2-3pm - Joe Ollerhead
4-5pm - Auge
5-6pm - Karl, troy & Bex
6-7pm - Luke Johnstone & Niall
7-8pm - JB
8-9pm - Joe Collett

Thursday:

3-4pm - Alex & Tom
4-5pm - Mark King
5-6pm - John Marley 
6-7pm - Joe
7-8pm - Ed & Tom
8-9pm - Mel Reeve
 
Friday:
10-11am - Dan Mcaleavy

Tune in by either clicking HERE, or on the 'Listen Up' link at the top-right of the page! 

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01225 718230

Andrea Smart - Supports NEETS & the Job Centre 
 
Andrew Bryant - Covers  Clarendon College
 
Anthony Oliver - Covers Wiltshire College and Supports NEETS

Charlie Todd - Supporting NEETS
 
John Webb - Supporting NEETS
 
Justine Watson - Supporting NEETS

Kate Witchell - Cover John Of Gaunt & Supporting NEETS  
 
Michaela Saint - Supporting NEETS

Nicola Walsh - Covers Wiltshire College

Pat Scott - Covers Wiltshire College

Sue Wills  - Covers St Augustine's

Vickie Fauset - Supporting NEETS

Review: Good Night, Sleep Tight

Venue: Salisbury Playhouse

Date: 2nd November, 2011

Reviewer: Pip Denman (aged 13)

Good Night, Sleep Tight is a performance by Stage 65, a youth drama group from Salisbury Playhouse and the story is based around bedtime, sleep and dreams. The ages of the actors were mostly the same, about 15 and 16 year olds, however one of the characters was a bit older, about 20. There were about 9 or 10 different actors, but most of them had two or three roles. The play lasted for about an hour.

My favourite scene was the camping scene. I enjoyed this scene in particular as the lighting, sound effects and acting was great and it was also a very comic scene. The actor’s reactions to the sound effects was very funny, it was a creative way of showing the characters’ fears. The only thing that I found to be wrong with this scene was the tent which blocked some of the action on the other side of the stage.

The other scene I enjoyed was the child’s bedtime scene, because the toys came to life. The actors adapted well to their characters; a Ballerina from a music box, a nutcracker doll, and a teddy bear. Their facial features and movements were excellent; I also I found the child with the mask was very successful and worked well with the mask.

The set was very simple, it only had mattresses, pillows, and a few blankets. Good Night, Sleep Tight was a rounded performance, if I had to rate it I would give it a 9 out of 10. I enjoyed it and would love to see it again. 

To find out what's on at Salisbury Playhouse, click here.

To find out about how you can take part in The Unit Young Reviewer's Club, click here.

We have been continuing to ensure that young peoples views are being heard on a range of important sub groups including- The 11 - 19 Implimentation Group, Local Safeguarding Childrens Board, Children and Young Peoples Stakeholder Partnership, Childrens Select Committee etc... (If you want to know more about these groups contact WAY via Hayley at Hayley.Bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk).

We have also been really busy this year taking part in a range of consultations on different strategies including: 11 - 19 Strategy, Poverty strategy, Children in Care  strategy, Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health strategy and the Children and Young Peoples Plan. Most of the reports for these strategies can be found on sparksite.

In addition we have supported the Voice and Influence team to run a range of events including Local Democracy Week Roadshows.

Probably our biggest focus this year though is preparing for our Mental Health Conference in February 2012- that we look forward to seeing lots of young people at.

Check out the links for our recent WAY meeting agenda's and minutes. If you have an issue that you would like to bring to the WAY agenda then please let us know. We are here to represent the views of young people in Wiltshire, so would love to discuss any issues you may have. We have no agenda on here for August as that is our annual all day summer outing (We went to Thorpe Park!), and we also don't have one for September, as our September meeting was taken over by the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). We had a really good September meeting and it has given us some great material for our Mental Health Conference.

We look forward to hearing from you!

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01380 737320

Kirstie Barter, East Multi-Disciplinary Team Leader/Personal Adviser

Email - Kirstie.barter@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Devizes School, Pewsey Vale School and supports Pewsey young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Martin Sandford, Personal Adviser

Email - Martin.sandford@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Rowdeford School, Wellington Academy and supports Tidworth young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Helen Johnson, Personal Adviser

Email - Helen.johnson@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Rowdeford School and supports Devizes young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Alison Collier, Personal Adviser

Email - Alison.collier@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Downlands School and supports Devizes young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Peter Marlow, Personal Adviser

Email – peter.marlow@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: St John’s School, Lavington School and supports Marlborough young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

My name is Tom. I am studying TV and Film at wiltshire college. One of my favourite hobbys in skateboarding.

Where I am From

The wonderful place that is Melksham. 

Thoughts On Spark

From what i've heard about Spark, it sounds great and I can't wait to go live!

Turn Ons

Garlic mayo. Landing a new trick on a skateboard.

Turn Offs

I hate text language! I also hate it when people say lol and they're not laughing...

Music

I love the Beatles! The genres I like are, indie, hip hop, punk, metal and dnb ish. I hate most mainstream artists.

Who I am and Where i am from.

I'm Alex Abbott and i live in the land of the lively, Chippenham!

Thoughts on Spark...

i havn't really thought of doing anything like being on the radio before so i'm well excited to start and get into it! GO SPARK!

Turn Ons

BACON. Most other food. I love going to gigs and playing Xbox, and of course Listening sick music on FULL BLAST!

Turn Offs

Broken headphones! My cracked screen on my ipod, not eating!

Fav Music

Enter Shikari, Young Guns. Genre's: DNB, DUBSTEP, INDIE, HIP HOP.

Catch us both every Thursday from 3- 4pm 

A number of groups of young people will be shortlisted to present their ideas for projects.  The amount you are asking for can be any amount from £100 up to £2,000 and must address issues for young people in this area.  There is a total of £10,000 available towards these projects.

Everyone present at the meeting on Monday 23 January will be able to vote on how to allocate the funding.  So even if you don't put in an application you can still come along and hear about the projects and join in with the voting.

The application process is now open and the documents you need can be downloaded here.  The deadline for applications is Tuesday 13th December 2011 and those chosen to present their idea will be informed by Monday 9th January.

If you have any questions or you would like any help with applications or project ideas then please do not hesitate to contact Richard on 01225 718626 or email Richard.Rogers@Wiltshire.gov.uk

We are providing an opportunity to gain a FREE nationally recognised Level 1 qualification in Preparing for Employment. The 1.5 day course focuses on the following key areas:

* Preparation for work

* Preparing for an interview

* Personal presentation

* Writing a CV

* Searching for a job

* Applying for a job

The course will be run at Marlborough Youth Centre on Tuesday 15th and Wednesday 16th November 2011. All learners completing the course will get a £10 voucher to spend at high street stores. 

If you are interested in signing up for this course or for more information, please contact:

Pete Marlow, Connexions East Team – 07867 907085

Short presentation for The Event on the work of GoG's (Group of Gay's) nominated for a Group Award. October 2011.

On Friday 4th November, the UK Youth Parliament Second Annual House of Commons Debate was held, and 4 of Wiltshire’s young people were amongst those involved. Ellie Pullen- 15 from Westbury; Jamie Capp- 16 from Amesbury and Chloe Harris-Alba 14 from Malmesbury were three of the Members of Youth Parliament debating in the Chamber, whilst Ellie Vesey-Thompson- 17 from Marlborough, was at the event working as part of the media team.

Ellie Pullen said, “It was brilliant to be sat on those green benches…but the chamber was smaller than I expected it to be! My favourite part of the day was meeting Ed Miliband”

“My favourite part was simply being there…the atmosphere…the chance to be one of the few people to sit in the chamber.” Stated Jamie Capp

The five debate issues covered throughout the day as voted for by over 65’000 young people from across the UK, were; No to Tuition Fees, Yes to Graduate Tax; Make Public Transport Cheaper, Better and Accessible for all; Zero Tolerance towards Bullying in Schools; End Child Poverty and; A Greener Future for Britain.

Chairing the debates was the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Rt Hon John Bercow, a long-term supporter of the Youth Parliament. Also present were Sir George Young- Leader of the House, Angela Eagle- Shadow Leader of the House, Tim Loughton- Minister for Children, Natasha Engle MP, Ed Miliband- Leader of the Opposition, Aled Jones- BBC Radio 1’s Chris Moyles Show and many other MPs who came to show their interest in youth democracy. The debates were also televised Live by BBC Parliament.

“I am so glad BBC Parliament televised the debates, as it allowed all young people to be involved and engaged in the event.” Explained Miss Pullen

After a long session of debating, with various degrees of passion, dependent upon the motion, Members had the job of voting on the favourite motion, which would become the Youth Parliament’s National Campaign for the year. Following the traditional process of division, Members left the Chamber to cast their vote.

Opinions were split “My favourite debate was the ‘No to Tuition Fees, Yes to Graduate Tax’, due to the passion and opinions that were put forward, some very diverse views were presented.” Mr Capp argued, whilst his colleagues thought otherwise Miss Pullen “enjoyed the transport debate most,” as she thinks “it is one of the most important issues for my constituents” In this she was backed up by Miss Harris-Alba who believed “The ‘Make Public Transport Cheaper, Better and Accessible for All’ was the best debate, as everyone had a different view.”

Votes were counted and the top issue as voted for by the UK Youth Parliament, and the new National Campaign for this year was “Make Public Transport Cheaper, Better and More Accessible for all”.

Media Representative Ellie Vesey-Thompson said, “It was really great to watch the Youth Parliament debates in the Chamber. There was clearly a lot of passion for many of the issues, and some really great speeches from representatives across the UK. It is great that young people get this opportunity to express their views, and I believe it is a really important part of youth democracy.”

I typically write alternative acoustic. Although I am starting to branch out a little slowly. I'm not a typical singer songwriter in the basis that I write about life, this is anything from friendship, to love, to family.

I love acoustic music but have started to look a little into electro and also alternative. I love listening to both signed and unsigned bands to get inspiration for my music. My favourite artists and bands range from The Script, Ellie Goulding, Beck Goldsmith and Adele. These influences have really helped shape my music over the past few years and also inspire me to keep writing.

People often ask me what inspires me and my response every time is. Life in general inspires me. What I love about my music is literally anything can spark my creativity. It could be a dream, a television show or even just walking home. My other interests included drama, music technology and a little bit of filmmaking.

I would love people to hear my music to show that Salisbury and the rest of Wiltshire do have talent. One of my main ambitions is to also show that young people are creative and not just the stereotypical troublemakers. I want to do this by getting other young people to help me become The Next Brit Thing. A young people's music competition.

All you need to do is go to www.nextbritthing.com and type in littleaj have a listen to my tracks and vote via facebook.

With the venue and the workers of the night decorated and dressed up for Halloween the venue definitely looked ready for the night to begin. As the young people was arriving there was opening music played by DJ Chris giving off an exciting feeling for what's in store for night's event. Expressing how proud to be part of such an awarding organisation there was a speech given by Councillor Lionel Grundy and Kevin Sweeney.

The evening ran smoothly having various acts showing off their talents whether it was dance being performed by Salisbury, Tidworth, and Westbury dance groups, DJ's throughout the night included DJ Dave, Chris, and Shane,  hard metal bands by ‘Acts of Brutality' and ‘Caught in the Crossfire', or a love for singing which was perfectly performed by Jamie Coop. The evening gave off a warm welcoming to all organisations and young people letting them enjoy the night while also having fun.

The event held a buffet which personally was the best time of the night indulging in brownies and a chocolate fountain which seemed to be a hit with the other guests.

Joining together to award young people on their exceptional involvement there were a total of four awards being presented.

The first award was being presented for a Group Award which was won by Westbury Smoothie Bar project for being a strong group while helping others. The group had been at Centre Parcs all day being involved in group activities such as swimming and tight ropes.

Congratulations for winning the award you must be overwhelmed with your achievements.  

Westbury Smoothie Bar project: We are very proud as we all feel as we have achieved a lot and feel good to be recognised by others.

Have you enjoyed the evening so far? What has been the best bit?

Westbury Smoothie Bar project: Tonight has been really good I've enjoyed every second. We loved Salisbury dance group so much they were brilliant.

The second award was being presented for the Centre Parcs award which was held throughout the day being involved in activities such as water challenges, swimming, low ropes and high ropes. The award was given to Team B from Holt and Westbury.

How do you feel about winning? You must feel very proud.

Team B: We feel great! We tried our best to interact with each other and get recognised and it worked! We had great partnership with each other.

The evening has been great so far, what have you enjoyed?

Team B: We loved Jamie Coop he was amazing! He's got a brilliant voice.

The third award was being presented for an Individual Award being a role model for others while helping others. The winner of this award was Joe Collette.

Well done! How do you feel about winning?

Joe: I feel awesome! I'm really glad I've won this award as it feels as if this is a perfect finish to me leaving SparkRadio. It is a nice way to end such a good experience.

Sorry to hear that. We will miss you! So what have you enjoyed of the night so far?

Joe:  The night has certainly been interesting. I've loved Caught in the Crossfire. I think the night has been awesome.

The final award of the night was being presented for partnership. The award was given to Great Bedwin Youth club for going that extra mile with helping others.

Congratulations! Well done for winning how do you feel?

Great Bedwin youth club: It was unexpected but we are really glad we won.

Well from what I have heard you deserve it. How has the evening gone so far? What have you enjoyed?

Great Bedwin youth club: Thank you! The night has been really good we've loved the dance music from DJ Chris and we have loved the Tidworth dance group.

Formed and how: Officially formed in March 2010 when Sadie Joined.

Style of music: Progressive - Post - Ambient rock

Favourate original songs: We like them all, they're all enjoyable

Gigs/events played: Too many to mention, but there are a few that stick out - Mr Kyps - Poole, Rock Awards, Party in the Close (Salisbury Cathederal)

Aspirations: To always play music

Websites/contacts: www.facebook.co.uk/CITCMusic

If you think the voice of young people deserves to be heard at the highest level, if you're driven and motivated to work to make positive changes for young people across the county, if you think you can represent your friends and peers on a county-wide platform...

THEN WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!

Any young person living or attending school in Wiltshire is eligible to nominate themselves for these elections – you don’t have to be chosen by your school or youth centre. All you need to do is fill in a nomination form and attend a training day – very simple. You can download the nomination form on this page, but there is a lot more than that involved if you do get elected and you need to consider this before you decide to stand.

WAY

If you decide to go for a position on WAY and get elected, you then become a representative for other young people in Wiltshire. This means you are in a position where you will be asked to represent the views of other young people; often to powerful decision-making panels within local government or other organisations in Wiltshire. You will need to keep talking to other young people; at your youth centre, in your local town or community to make sure you can fairly represent young people’s views – not just your own personal ones. WAY meetings are held on a monthly basis and this is where you have a chance to work in smaller groups on the issues you feel most strongly about and try and bring about change. WAY members also sit on a variety of decision making panels to make sure young people’s opinions are heard at a high level. The time commitment needed from WAY members us broken down like this: A monthly WAY meeting, one hour a week which may involve things like checking and responding to emails and attending other meetings (plus other opportunities if you want to get more involved). There is also a residential once a year for three days of training. This is the minimum that WAY members do – but many of our current members do a lot more than this but you don’t have to as it is understood that young people have busy lives!

UKYP:

If you decide you want to get involved in promoting young people’s opinions at a national level then UKYP might be for you. Every area in the UK has young people representatives who are elected locally to put forward the issues that are important for their local area. You automatically get a place on WAY if you are elected as a UKYP  Deputy Member. There are 3 places for UKYP in Wiltshire and each of these members also has a deputy to help with the workload. After your first year on UKYP as a Deputy, you have the option of becoming the Member of Youth Parliament for your area for a further year. The work is very similar to what we have outlined for WAY members but you get involved in regional and national meetings too. The time commitment involved in being a UKYP rep is: approximately 2 hours a week (again, this could be spent checking and responding to emails as well as other meetings); 3 weekends a year for residentials, one regional meeting every 6 weeks and monthly WAY meetings.

If you're interested in finding out more about WAY or UKYP, why not fill out a nomination form and come and talk to us at one of the training sessions in December.

I'm John Marley and I live in sunny Chippenham. 

Your Thoughts On Spark

Spark is an amazing experience and I feel that participating in the scheme provides a career gateway for those with an interest in media.

Turn Ons

Cheese on toast and banjo (seperately)

Turn Offs

People who use the phrase "Good times" out of context.

Fav Music

Metallica, Trivium, Led Zeppelin, Slipknot, Pantera, Django Reinhardt. 

Salisbury art centre held a film festival to end an intensifying week of the Salisbury art trail. The Salisbury art trail was made up from surprise screenings helped bought together by community groups, schools, and filmmakers.

The Art trail also exhibited sophisticated jewellery, bold sculptures, painted landscapes, and bright contemporary printmaking. Sharp practice has also taken part again this year contributing body art.

The screenings created included feature films, freshly commissioned work, and community creations that were taken from classical stories added with a twist to keep you guessing...what’s the story?

The screenings were shown around Salisbury in different locations and in a numbered sequence including ‘Salisbury library’, ‘Waterstones’, galleries, work studios and some of the artist’s homes.  Film producer Jamie has helped produce some of the 3 minute films in the Salisbury Art Centre’s filmmaking drop in session, contributing his ideas and giving some of his expertise to help Stonehenge school amongst others to create their own interpretation from the 2003 book of the year, ‘Curious incident of the dog in the night time.’

As the film festival was held at the end of the week this gives the Salisbury art trail an ending it deserves. Celebrating the success of the Art trail the Salisbury Art Centre showcased classical films including ‘Fantastic Mr Fox’, ‘My Dog Tulip’, and the audience’s Choice Screening, ‘True Grit’ which was voted by the audience online.

After two weeks of exhibiting artists work in a thrilling way the Salisbury art trail has definitely bought art into the 21st century.  

The final act to perform was a solo guitarist, Ben.

Ben (20’s) who lives in Salisbury first started to play the guitar when he was 8 years old. Being inspired by 80’s heavy metal Ben also learnt to play the drums. Ben became more confident in playing as he would always get positive feedback from others.

Ben: ‘I wanted to audition as I’ve never received feedback from anyone so when I did I thought it would be a good idea to compete.’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony, The Event.

Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The second act to perfrom was Tidworth Dance Group.

Tidworth dance group have 8 members including, Evie (16), Charley (15), Jade (15), Chloe (15), Heather (15), Aimee (14), Cody (14), and Chloe (13) whom started out with contemporary dancing back in February as a group. Starting off with a small group the girls met each other at Tidworth youth centre and decided to start a dance group being inspired by city life. With dance being so energetic and exciting the girl decided they would audition giving them the chance to perform for others.

Tidworth: ‘After practicing so hard at the routine and performing you feel as if you’ve achieved something.’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony, The Event.

Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The first act to perfrom were Durrington Dance Group.

Durrington dance group whom consist of 4 friends, Poppy (13), Megan (13), Lucy (13), and Chloe (13) started to contemporary and street dance back in 2009.

Showing off their talents they begun taking part in dance shows which helped gain their confidence to apply for the auditions. Being inspired by the likes of Beyoncé and Louie Spence the 4 girls want to make themselves known by competing and to let others know who they are.

Durrington: ‘One thing I love about dance is the partner work. It does get tiring so we all end up arguing but it is worth it in the end’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony. Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The third act to perform at the auditions were Westbury Dance Group.

Westbury dance group is made up of 4 friends, Becky (13), Rhiannon (15), Zoe (15), and Harriet (15) who enjoys contemporary dancing at their local youth centre. Being in a group for 2 ½ years has bought the girls closer and more confident to audition as they inspire each other to compete. With Choreography being there interest the girls are always trying out dance moves.

Westbury: ‘We want to audition this year as it’s a lot of fun and we think it would be a great experience.’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony, The Event.  Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The fifth act to perform were DJ's Dave and Chris.

Dave (18) and Chris (17) who are from Salisbury first started to DJ together at a friend’s house party. With Dave having experience for 2 years and Chris for half a year it didn’t take long for the two to DJ together. Being inspired by today’s number 1 artists the two like to pick their tracks according to modern artists leaving no space for heavy metal.

Dave and Chris: ‘We want to audition as we love to entertain and inspire people and we want to get ourselves known to get further in life.’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony, The event. Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The sixth act to perform was DJ Nick.

Nick (18) who is from Salisbury first got inspired to DJ by his friend’s dad and would practice on the vinyls. Nick, who started to DJ around 3 years ago, uses any material from modern day artists and a bit of old classics. Nick likes anything with a beat as he thinks this would entertain the crowd.

Nick: ‘I want to audition as I want to put myself out there and it’s something I really love and I want to share it with everyone else.’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony, The Event. Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The seventh act to perform is DJ Shane.

Shane (18) who is from Salisbury first started to DJ 7 years ago first having his experience at a friend’s house. Continuing to do a course at the youth centre Shane decided he wanted to become a DJ as he loves the feeling. Being inspired by DJ Dixie Shane likes to mix old sounds with new he likes to experiment his sounds.

Shane: ‘I wanted to audition as I won it last year and I like to compete against others.’

Salisbury youth centre held an audition night for young people to participate in an awards ceremony, The Event. Auditioning consisted of 4 dance groups, 3 DJ’s, 1 band, and 1 solo guitarist.

The eigth act to perform is a band called Caught in the Crossfire.

Caught in the crossfire is a band which includes a guitarist Sam (17), drummer Ian (17), singer Sadie (17), guitarist Josh (17), and 3rd guitarist Luke (17) who all started out as a band a year ago accepting there latest member, Sadie into the band. The band’s name came about from a blue’s player called Stevie ray thorn that came out with a biography called ‘Caught in the crossfire’. Being inspired from ‘Explosions in the sky’ and ‘The Beatles’ the band wanted to audition as they thought it would be a good opportunity.

Caught in the crossfire: ‘As we're practicing we would sometimes come up with a new beat which is then followed by the lyrics.’

The fourth act to perform was the Salisbury Dance Group.

Salisbury dance group have 7 members including, Alice (15), Anita (13), Charlie (15), Sadie (14), Emily (13), Micky (13), and Alex (13) who all started as a contemporary dance group 2 weeks ago. With some members new to dance the girls worked hard for their performance being inspired by Shakira and Beyoncé.  The girls are interested in choreography and enjoy making up new moves for their dances.

Salisbury: ‘We think it would be exciting to perform and we want the chance to inspire others.’ 

Why not just bring your friends along with you and make the night more exciting with many games and new experiences!

You have to register and then will be sent an e-mail, and then you can go to the project and vote. I thought it would be easier than that!!! But, if you haven't done it yet, I'd be ever so grateful if you would spare five minutes or so to do it. I spent hours putting in the application and your help now is vital!

The closing date for voting is: mid day 24th October 2011

Here is the link again:  http://communityforce.natwest.com/project/201

Thank you!!!!!
Lyn.

The Area Board has agreed to allocate £9,000 to projects to benefit young people in the Trowbridge Community Area which includes the villages of Southwick, Hilperton, West Ashton and North Bradley.

Groups of young people (which must be a minimum of 6 young people) up to the age of 21 can apply for up to £1,000 of this funding to take part in activities, buy equipment or any other project ideas that will benefit them in their local community. 

To apply please contact Rachel Efemey, Trowbridge Community Area Manager on 01225 718608 or email rachel.efemey@wiltshire.gov.uk who will provide a simple form to be completed.  Please note applications must come from young people direct not groups acting on their behalf.

The deadline for applications is 5pm, Friday 25th November 2011 and shortlisted groups will be invited to a special Area Board meeting on Thursday 19th January, 6.30pm at the Civic Centre, Trowbridge.  Those attending will be able to vote for which projects they wish to receive funding.

Wiltshire College Chippenham:    

Wednesday 12^th Oct 6pm - 8pm

Tuesday 31^st Jan 6pm - 8pm

Wednesday 2^nd May 3pm - 5pm (Information session)

Wiltshire College Lackham:         

Saturday 5^th Nov 9.30am - 12.30am

Saturday 4^th Feb 9.30am - 12.30am

Thursday 24^th May 4pm - 7pm (Information session)

Wiltshire College Trowbridge:      

Tuesday 11^th Oct 6pm - 8pm

Tuesday 7^th Feb 6pm - 8pm

Wednesday 16^th May 3pm - 5pm (Information session)

City Of Bath:               

Thursday 10^th Nov 4pm - 7pm

Wednesday 8^th Feb 4pm - 7pm

Thursday 17^th May 4pm - 7pm

Swindon North Star:     

Thursday 10^th Nov

Wednesday 8^th Feb 4pm - 7pm

For guidance here are some situations which

The introduction of the 101 number will help communities to keep their neighbourhoods safe by giving them one easy way to speak directly with their local police to report and discuss all non urgent police related issues. This new number will not change the way we respond to non-urgent calls or connect people to a large national call centre. Calls will still be received by call handlers in our local control rooms.

A number of groups of young people will be shortlisted to present their ideas for projects.  The projects must have a maximum cost of £1,000 and address issues for young people in this area.  There is a total of £4,500 available towards these projects.

Everyone present at the meeting on 9 January will be able to vote on how to allocate the funding.  So even if you don't put in an application you can still come along and hear about the projects and join in with the voting.

The application process is now open and the documents you need can be downloaded here.  The deadline for applications is Friday 11 November 2011.

If you have any questions or you would like any help with applications or project ideas then please do not hesitate to contact Caroline on 01225 718609 or email caroline.brailey@wiltshire.gov.uk

There was many activities held including an inflatable assualt course, rifle ranges, holding a raffle and the most popular attraction, the skate park which catered for all ages and both genders.

They had support from Escapexsports, Oxenwood, Wiltshire sports, and Cupcake passion who helped with the events happening and attracting the local community making the open day a real succes.

After taking part in some of the events I wanted to get reviews of the day from some of the young people attending:

Luke Singer, aged 12, first day.

''My favourite activity has been the skate park and the inflatable assualt course. I'm planning on coming again as I've really had a brillaint time.''

Shannon, aged 11, first day.

''I've had such a good time today and I'm coming again every wednesday after school. The best thing I've done today was the archery.''

Aged 18+ Fixed Term Contract till 9th September 2013

30 Hours per week £15,399 pa (FTE 18,993) Bishops Hull, Taunton

The Regional Youth Work Unit at Learning South West is looking to recruit a young person to develop the next phase of our successful Sounds Positive poject which promotes images of young people in the local media.  You will support and train other young people in the region and work with local newspapers, TV, radio and websites through the South West.  There will be an opportunity to undertake a relevant qualification in either Media or Youth Work.

Want to find out more - download the full advert here

The closing date of applications if 6th October, interviews on 20th October.

Phase 1

At the start of our NCS we were all asked if we would like to take part in a new project set up by the government to enable us to meet new people from all backgrounds and take part in a community project and gain accreditation. We met regularly to arrange dates and learn more about the course we were starting. In our preparations we discussed social action projects and fundraising schemes.

We then did a team building day of caving which was good fun where we helped and supported each other. We agreed to push ourselves but with also not going somewhere all members did not wish to go?

Phase 2

The away residential to YHA Welsh Bicknor was designed to help us with team work and communication skills within our group which were learnt through various activities and challenges to provide us with necessary skills for later in the course.

The activities included team building exercises which were done every night such as save the egg in which they were designed to enable the group as a whole to work better together.

Our first main activity was rock climbing which was fun and challenging at the same time and made us supportive of other as we had to guide each other in which we had to place a lot of trust in our peers.

The next activity was canoe/kayaking which was really fun and exciting. We did a 5 miles down the River Wye in which we kept team spirits high and helped each other.

Another activity was raft building which was the favoured activity of them all as it provided a challenge and a race in which we specifically designed ours to capsize so we had to work hard as a team to keep it upright.

Overall the whole residential was really good and a great experience. We all got along well and really enjoyed the activities.    

Programme planning will be your ideas put together to plan sessions! 

YOUR CENTRE, YOUR IDEAS, YOUR SPACE, YOUR INPUT

We are a centre commited to you the young people! We are open on Thursday and Friday nights- 6.45-9.00pm. Ages 11-19, All welcome.

We are located on Polebarn round near the Police station and the park.

You don’t even need to be drinking ......just carrying the alcohol is an offence!

Drinking alcohol in public places can be intimidating for other people and can lead to anti-social behaviour and crime Alcohol is a drug and if misused can lead to serious health conditions.

How does this work?

If stopped with alcohol by the police or a PCSO* 3 times in 12 months you could be:

• arrested and,
• if sentenced you may face a fine of up to £500 and,
• you may end up with a criminal record
* PCSO – Police Community Support Officer

If you would like more information or help you can contact:

Motiv8 the young people’s drug and alcohol service on:

South and East Wiltshire 07825 657058

North and West Wiltshire 07798 833603

The people of Lulworth were treated to the Dub-Pop masterclass that is Katy B as the afternoon rolled on, getting young people's hands moving and people jumping twenty rows back. I was lucky enough to catch up with Katy before her performance, and you can hear that interview here.
 
Mark Ronson
was the Saturday night headliner and with a chilling tribute to his friend Amy Winehouse, kept Camp Bestival crowds entertained. With members of the Zutons, the View, and KT Tunstall joining him on stage to form his star-studded backing band 'The Business International', he was set for success. The producer pulled out all the stops to entertain Lulworth and made it clear his love and memory toward late friend Amy.

 
Eliza Doolittle

 was fun and exciting and it brought the younger people to the main stage to enjoy the beautiful pop-jazz sensations' hour long set. With hits like Pack Up and Skinny Genes, Eliza wowed me and many others as she performed a main-stage masterclass.
 
 
House of Pain got people putting their kickers on and jumping around, finishing their 6 week festival tour with a real flourish. One of the highlights of my weekend, the Irish-American hip-hop duo added a real feel good element to the Sunday afternoon, and I managed to take 30 seconds out of their busy schedule to ask them about their fans.
 
Primal Scream closed proceedings on the Sunday night with a captivating and intriguing performance, performing the entire Screamadelica album to the thousands who made their way to the main stage for the final boogie of a memorable weekend.  With Rob Da Bank's creation now half a decade old and counting, the festival spirit was beautifully captured at Lulworth Castle, topped off with a flourish by some entertaining fireworks and laser work on the castle walls. See you all next year, Hi De Hi!

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01225 718230   

Charlie Todd - Supporting NEETS
 
John Webb - Supporting NEETS

Michaela Saint - Supporting NEETS

Nicola Walsh - Supporting NEETS

Tara Gibson - Covers Kingdown & Support NEETS

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01225 718230

Andrew Bryant - Supporting NEETS

Barry Reeve - Supporting NEETS

Charlie Todd - Supporting NEETS
 
John Webb - Supporting NEETS
 
Michaela Saint - Supporting NEETS
 
Sue Wills - Covers Matravers,

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01225 718230

Charlie Todd - Supporting NEETS

John Webb - Supporting NEETS

Kate Witchell - Supporting NEETS
  
Michaela Saint - Supporting NEETS 
 
Ruth White - Covers Melksham Oak

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01225 718230

Barry Reeve - Covering St Laurence School 

Charlie Todd - Supporting NEETS
 
John Webb - Supporting NEETS
 
Michaela Saint - Supporting NEETS

Download the interview here - CLICK 

Click the play button then drag across until you get to 2hrs 16mins to hear the interview.

This link takes you to the whole programme.

WELL DONE SALLY!

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01380 737320

Kirstie Barter, East Multi-Disciplinary Team Leader/Personal Adviser

Email - Kirstie.barter@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Pewsey Vale School, Pewsey - supporting NEETs

To contact your Personal Adviser call 01380 737320

Martin Sandford, Personal Adviser

Tel: 01225 718230

Martin.sandford@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers:  Wellington Academy, Tidworth & Ludgershall supporting NEETs

'Be Happy, Stay Healthy'  

This year local democracy week will be running from 10th-17th October and Wiltshire will be doing its bit to get involved.

To tie in with the new Wiltshire Council Strategy on Emotional Health and Well-Being, the Children and Young People’s Plan and the Wiltshire Assembly of Youth Agenda for Action, The Wiltshire Voice & Influence Team will be joining forces with local primary and secondary schools, colleges, youth centres and children and young people’s voluntary groups to spread the word that YOUNG MINDS MATTER!

We will be encouraging children and young people to take a few minutes out of their day to think about their Emotional Health and Well-Being and asking the question: ‘What can you do to be happy and stay healthy?’

If you’d like to find out more about what will be happening across the county during Democracy Week, or if you would like help in getting your school involved you can contact Hayley on:

hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk.  

More info coming soon...

Consultation has now finished and we can now publish the full report.

Wiltshire Children's Trust wants to improve the emotional well-being and mental health of young people in Wiltshire, so that all Wiltshire children and young people feel happy and healthy.

The Children's Trust have written a plan on how they are going to work towards all children and young people having good mental health.

Your views and comments on the draft report have been recorded and put in to a report that has gone to the people who make decisions.

This DVD is about the opportunity given to young people in our youth centres and communities  to VOLUNTEER and enjoy the experience, learn some new skills and gain accreditation.  It’s also about helping young people to think about future career paths and options .

One of the main highlights for JB this year was the Satuday night headline set by Mexican guitar duo Rodrigo Y Gabriela that captivated the huge crowd with classics such as "Hanuman" and "Buster Voodoo" and playful suprises such as Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" and Metallica's "Seek and Destroy". Straight after that there wasn't yet another act that left the audience stunned; Baaba Maal sang into the night and help create an evening that will be remembered for years to come. In the Big Red Tent you had The Boxettes (featuring champion beatboxer Bellatrix) warm up an eager crowd with vocal skills that featured an awe - inspiring bass vocal that just shook you to your very core. This led onto everybody getting their best skank on for Dub Pistols as they kept the crowd on their feet for the duration of their set with suprise guest after suprise guest.

 When not taking the the wide range of music on offer, there was the huge selection of foods that you could try at any time of the day. From fresh corn on the cob combo's to the Japanese noodle bar you could anything and everything you could possibly think of at a very good festival price. (JB highly recommends the Ethiopian/Eritrean stall, a massive plate of delicious food for only a fiver!)

Once you've filled yourself up there was the experience known as the Forest of Wellbeing. The special area of the festival is home to a whole array of treatments such as Shiatsu message that soothes all the aches and pains of a festival. Traditional treatment not you thing? Then worry not, there were specialist and alternative options availiable such as Sound Immersion therapy that clense both the mind and soul.

So if a weekend that offers a vast array of great music that ranges from well known names to obscure gems is your thing with a great atmosphere where new friends are aplenty then JB and Spark highly recommends checking out the amazing sights and sounds of WOMAD in 2012.

JB

Volunteering is a great way to build your skills and gain experience in an area that you want to work in.  It’s also a great way to make contacts and new friends outside of school. 

Volunteering can open up a world of possibilities for you!

If you are interested in volunteering, get in touch with us at volunteer@cvsnw.org.uk  or you can search the www.do-it.org.uk website 24/7 for the ideal volunteering opportunity for you .

SEE you there !!!

Monday: Drop-in session, 6:45pm - 9pm

Thursday: Girls' Night, 6:45pm - 9pm

Friday: Junior Night for Year 8 & 9's, 6:45pm - 9pm

Transport may be available if you live in local villages and want to attend.

Please contact Jenni Bertram, Youth Development Co-ordinator on 07833722132 or email jenni.bertram@Wiltshire.gov.uk

4 Wiltshire Assembly of Youth (WAY) members made the journey to Leeds for this important event! The 3 UK Youth Parliament members from Wiltshire Jamie Capp, Ellie Pullen and Chloe Harris-Alba all attended, along with a deputy member of youth parliament Ellie Vesey Thompson who was attending as a media rep.

The UKYP annual sitting is a chance for all the elected members of UK Youth Parliament to come together and hear from guest speakers, share campaigning techniques, develop their skills as members of youth parliament and create the UKYP manifesto.

The sitting was officially opened on Friday by the speaker of the House of Commons Rt Hon John Bercow MP. Mr Bercow spoke about his passion and support for UKYP and how much he is looking forward to inviting UKYP members once again to debate at the House of Commons later this year.

Another speaker at the Friday afternoon opening ceremony was an inspiring lady called Iby Knill who was born in 1923 and is a holocaust surviver. Iby spoke openly and honestly about her experiences of the holocaust and has recently published a book called "The Woman without a number" detailing this. Iby's message to young people was "we are all the same under the skin".

Young people did 5 - 6 workshops over the weekend. Young people decided which workshops they wished to attend, workshop topics included: How to debate, How to plan an event, How to engage school councils, chicks in politics, International development etc... Young people also spent a good amount of time developing their manifesto and balloting on a range of issues.

On the Friday night, UKYP members were showcased to a variety of UKYP talent with the UKYP talent show! Acts ranged from contemporary dance to a Michael Jackson impression. I don't think we had any Britain's Got Talent winners amongst us though!

The key speaker on Saturday was Tim Loughton, MP (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Children) who took questions from several young people. Questions ranged from 'Do you agree with votes at 16?' to challenges about cuts to youth work. One question he was asked, he needed time to think about so later tweeted his reply. the question was "If you were a fly, whose wall would you like to be on now?" His reply was Rupert Murdock!

The Saturday night enteratinment was a silent disco! For those of you who are unsure what this is- everyone has headphones on and are able to flick between two different stations. It is really funny as depending on what station you listen to- only those listening to the same station as you will be dancing to the same beat! If you take your headphones off, you can hear everyone singing!

Finally on the Sunday the event was closed by Natasha Engel MP who like Tim Loughton was willingly confronted with a range of questions from UKYP members. Natasha Engel was unable to answer who she would poo on if she was a pigeon but when asked "If you were an animal, which animal would you be?" her reply was "I'm not too sure, but I definately wouldn't be a pigeon!"

Overall the weekend seemed to be a great success and UKYP members enjoyed themselves but worked hard!

Check out the UKYP Blog: http://ukyouthparliament.wordpress.com/

The programme involves young people in a local area coming together in teams (usually teams of 15). While young people can go along with friends, teams will also be a chance to make new friends and meet people from different backgrounds.

Away residential - a week (Monday to Friday) combining outdoor activities and mental challenges, designed to be challenging but fun and to help the team learn how to work well as a unit. Other NCS teams are also likely to be at the residential centre, so there will be more opportunities to meet new people.

Download all the information here, places are limited so please speak to Jaki Farrell to find out more and to book your place - 07990 801077

All will be revealed this Wednesday at 7pm EXCLUSIVELY on Spark Radio.

Explore different types of jobs, industries, trades and working lifestyles. Search by Favourite Subject, Qualifications, Lifestyle, Industry Sector and / or Type of Business.

Careers advice for students to surf at their own pace at home as well as at school.

Students can watch what other young people have to say about their careers.
It's easier to make decisions if you know what the options are.

As part of our summer coverage Spark Radio will be supporting and covering this years Fieldview Festival 4- 7th August just outside Chippenham.

Fieldview is a place where you can escape the day to day worries and expectations that place so many demands on us. It's an outlet for your creative mischievous side. A place where people of all ages come together to celebrate their shared humanity. The nations best up and coming bands, musicians and artists, a beautiful intimate rural setting, delicious home cooked local produce, which take the big concepts of localization and sustainability and put them into practice. Fieldview is a little oasis in a desert full of over the top mono-saturated festivals. It's trick is it's family feel, as its grown it has retained this, but every year more people hear and want to be involved. Witness live fire performances, interactive drama pieces, poetry, to camp fire singalongs. It's the people at Fieldview who make the festival what it is. When the people say the word, the festival will vanish back where it came from.  Fieldview is based on old fashioned values of honesty, charity and community. One day Fieldview will have its own field and the festival will happen all year around. 

Tune in over the next couple of weeks to Spark Radio to hear all the acts involved on a special Fieldview show and also thanks to the generosity of the organisers a chance to win tickets to Fieldview !!!

Catch an Exclusive Interview here from Dan Cameron Fieldview Organiser

Even with the packed daytime schedule of extreme sports, diving through the freebie melee at the NASS mainstay Route One Skate Team stall and stellar lineup of music in the evening, they managed to squeeze in a few interviews with the likes of Modestep and We Are The Ocean. Tune into the show Wednesdays 7-8pm to hear these exclusive interviews.

The musical side of the festival covered all tastes ranging from Cancer Bats and Arcane Roots to Sub Focus and Tinie Tempah and left an impact on our team due to the amazing performances and the excitement and energy given off by the crowd.

 Talking of crowds, the vast array of characters that JB and Mitchel hung out with at the festival provided endless hours of entertainment during the festival's downtime. With the three stages provide great music, they were spoilt for choice in the evening so this write up really cannot sum up buzz of NASS in the evening.

Scooter, Skate, Bmx or Inline... It really doesn't matter what you are into, you are guaranteed to be amazed by the action happening all around you from both the indoor and outdoor street spots and Razor Scooter course. Stars such as Mike V, Lacey Baker and Mark Webb taking to the courses meant that you were guaranteed to leave your jaw on the floor as they tore up courses throughout the weekend.

This festival is highly recommended to any young people and we eagerly await next years line up.

With next year's NASS being a year away, JB and Mitchel are already restless to experience one of the true highlights of the festival calendar. Until then tune in to Spark in the next coming weeks to hear exclusive interviews with Mike V and We Are The Ocean.

Spark Radio would like to thank Anna and all the Relentless team for their help and assistance in getting us there.

If you like this don't forget to click the LIKE button or even post up a comment...

If you are setting up a gay youth group and would like us to refer young people to you and list you on our website please let me know. I would be happy to list your group for free. You can upload the information yourself if you find it easier: http://www.stonewall.org.uk/at_home/whats_in_my_area/2710.asp

The Fit Feature will be released in 2010,

Check out their own website to find out how you can get involved and make a difference in your school or college - www.glsen.org

Check out their own website to find out more - www.queeryouth.org.uk

Spark radio presenters and reporters Thomas Rawson and Joe Collett were there to cover the event for Spark.

There are over 30 more acts to be included alongside the latest release of DJs, including Aussie Indie Rockers Cloud Control, British dub heros Gentleman’s Dub Club, and the ironically named American hardcore band G*y for Johnny Depp. The indie rockers Art Brut will be playing their classic art wave rock on the Relentless stage, along with King Charles, the London based psychedelic rocker who never fails to disappoint with his electric mix of style and musical flair.

Adding to the impressive list of electronic, breakbeat and dance DJs; Stanton Warriors and Freestylers will be joining the Tuaca Point Stage line-up and will keep the revellers dancing until the early hours.  

The Relentless Boardmasters:

The Relentless Boardmasters is Europe’s only surf, skate and music festival offering the ultimate in World Class surf and music. Previous acts include Cypress Hill, Groove Armada, Leftfield, Newton Faulkner and many more. Set over two locations the Relentless Boardmasters 2011 brings some exciting new additions.

The Relentless Boardmasters, as a celebration of 30 years of surfing at Fistral Beach the event has upgraded its Men’s ASP surf event to a 6 star event which will bring the best up and coming surfers on the planet. This year the event is running a week later, avoiding clashes with other high profile events across the World.

In a move to represent all aspects of surfing the Relentless Boardmasters will introduce longboarding including a 3 Star Men’s ASP event and 6 Star Ladies ASP event. With these new and upgraded events The Relentless Boardmasters will invest in its core surfing heritage and truly represent surfing as a whole.

Spark Radio will be keeping you updated leading up to the event and covering the best that Boardmasters have to offer. Watch this space.

For tickets and up to date information visit  www.relentlessboardmasters.com

What is Connexions?

Connexions provides advice, information and guidance (IAG) on careers and learning for all young people aged 13-19 via schools, colleges and Connexions centres.

Connexions also helps young people who need additional support, such as those who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), young people with special needs or learning difficulties, teenage parents or others with more complex needs.

Connexions Personal Advisers (PAs) can help young people with anything from courses and jobs to money, legal issues, housing, relationships, alcohol and drugs, volunteering or leisure activities.

Connexions works with partner groups all over Wiltshire to make sure young people get access to the information and support they need.

You can find more about Connexions here including information on

• careers and jobs
• further and higher education courses
• work and training opportunities including apprenticeships
• money matters.

Connexions is for all young people aged 13 to 19. This includes more intensive help for young people with complex needs such as teenage parents, people excluded from school, care leavers, young offenders, or substance misuse issues and up to age 25 for some young people with learning difficulties or disabilities.

How to access Connexions

1. Through PAs based in schools or colleges
2. At a number of access locations in communities across Wiltshire

From 1 July 2011, young people who have already left school or college can access Connexions support in a wide range of localities across Wiltshire as outlined below.

North Wiltshire - For details of times or to make appointments contact 01249 449900       

Chippenham	Town Hall Museum Job Centre	Mon pm, Wed pm, Frid am Tues pm By Appointment
Calne	Registrar's Office Community Hub	Mon am, Tues pm Wed pm
Corsham	Community centre	Wed pm
Cricklade	Library	Mon pm (school holidays only)
Malmesbury	School bungalow	Alternate Mon pm & Thurs pm
Purton	School bungalow Purton Library	Alternate Mon pm Alternate Thurs pm
Wootton Bassett	Youth Centre	Thurs pm

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South Wiltshire  - For details of times and to make appointments contact 01722 432435

Salisbury	Youth Centre, Grosvenor House Wilts Council Customer Services centre Youth Centre, Wilton Road Jobcentre	Tues am Wed pm, Thurs pm Fri am by appointment
Amesbury	Leisure Centre	Wed pm
Tisbury	Youth Centre	Tues pm
Mere	Youth Centre	Tues pm
Durrington	Youth Centre	Alternate Wed pm

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East Wiltshire - For details of times and to make appointments contact 01380 737320

Kirstie Barter, East Multi-Disciplinary Team Leader/Personal Adviser

Email - Kirstie.barter@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Devizes School, Pewsey Vale School and supports Pewsey young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Martin Sandford, Personal Adviser

Email - Martin.sandford@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Rowdeford School, Wellington Academy and supports Tidworth young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Helen Johnson, Personal Adviser

Email - Helen.johnson@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Rowdeford School and supports Devizes young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Alison Collier, Personal Adviser

Email - Alison.collier@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: Downlands School and supports Devizes young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

Peter Marlow, Personal Adviser

Email – peter.marlow@wiltshire.gov.uk

Covers: St John’s School, Lavington School and supports Marlborough young people aged 16 and over in finding work, training or getting back into education.

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West Wiltshire - For details of times and to make appointments contact 01225 718230

Trowbridge	Youth Centre Jobcentre	Daily By appointment
Melksham	Youth Centre	Mon pm
Warminster	Youth Centre	Thurs pm
Westbury	Youth Centre	Mon am

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3. Connexions Direct

Young people can also get immediate support and information from an adviser outside of normal office hours you can speak to a Connexions Direct Adviser by ‘phoning 080 800 13 2 19 between 8am and 2am or can contact an adviser by webchat, email or text by visiting the Direct.gov.uk website (http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/index.htm ).

4. Referral

Some young people needing additional support may be referred to Connexions via other agencies.

Useful websites:

Career and learning options

For information on further and higher education courses, qualifications and careers, visit http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/choices  or  www.focusoncareers.org.uk

What does Connexions do?

Some of the things Connexions is involved in are:

• Providing information, advice and guidance (IAG) to all young people in schools and colleges on courses, qualifications and careers

• Intensive support to young people with more complex needs

• Helping to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) through work on the Wiltshire NEET strategy

• Providing positive activities such as Summer Challenge and other targeted programmes, which help boost young people’s self esteem and skills and provide them with awards and qualifications

• Work with the voluntary and community sector, through funding for projects with young people

• Tracking the destinations of all young people who leave school to find out if they need additional support
• Involving young people in commenting on, designing and running the service, such as through staff appointments

• Supporting young people with learning disabilities through transition to other organisations or services.

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With two music stages - amplified and acoustic - and a performance stage for workshops, and performances including drum clinics, dance, poetry, art and more. The field is filled wwith stalls and room forchildren's and young people's activities including sports and festival fun.

Saturday afternoon is free; the rest of the sessions are ticketed.

The site can be accessed here and features audio and video clips of detailed interviews with 33 young people in their teens and twenties from all walks of life.

The new site, funded by the Department of Health and researched by Oxford University, is considered a unique, evidence-based qualitative study of young people's experience of drugs and alcohol and shows, above all, the benefit of being properly informed about alcohol and drugs.

Party in The Close

Reviewed by Megs Slark 

As we entered the Close armed with three packets of three for a pound sweets and a bottle of sixty six pence lemonade, we were stunned to see a big circus tent and hundreds of people flooding the land of the Close, all eating from stalls and glancing at the stage every few minutes.

As I laid down my picnic blanket right at the front of the close, near the stage, my ears were filled with music from my own school band; Caught in the Crossfire. The brilliant skill was obvious throughout and the blaring volume suited it perfectly. I led down and watched the clouds morph into different shapes for a while. The weather was dry, yet overcast. The band played their final song and exited the stage.

After a twenty minute set change and a lot of persuading of Freya (my guest to the event) we got up to dance. The second band were incredible, they were my favourite band of the night. Kanda Bongo Man mixed bold, brave drumming with brilliant vocal skills and awesome stage presence. We shuffled into a spot right in front of the stage and busted some moves for about an hour, before going back to check on our bags, which some women that were sat near us offered to look after. After finding that they were safe, we got back up and had another dance. We saw some friends and had a quick chat before deciding we needed the loo and rushing off to the (rather posh) porta-loos outside the entrance to the Close.

Upon returning, we noticed some people with funky paint on their faces. We asked them where they got their faces painted and they pointed us in the direction of the circus tent. We went and joined the queue which would have been extremely boring, if it weren’t for the street theatre being performed next to the queue. For half an hour, I watched as a man pranced around the space spraying water from his strap-on udders. If not vaguely inappropriate, this sketch was mildly entertaining.

I got a rainbow coloured swirl around my right eye and Freya got a dynamic butterfly. Best of all, it was free! We made our way back to the stage and had a last dance, to Soothsayers and the Red Earth Collective. Their music had quite a slow beat, making it hard to dance to, and seemed to only have the simplest of lyrics, making it my least favourite band of the evening. We took a seat and watched the beautiful display of fireworks, which ended the evening perfectly. The music from Cirque du Soleil accompanied the incredible display and it was a sad moment when the music stopped and the crowd burst into rapturous applause for the evening. Only because it meant the event was officially over. We packed up and wandered out of the Close, stunned by how fabulous the night had been.

We’ve already vowed we’ll go again next year. Not a bad night for £1.66.

By joining the scheme young people will automatically receive the Wiltshire Passport, which will entitle them to receive small discounts and additional services at all participating businesses.

The scheme has been developed by Wiltshire Council in partnership with Carer Support Wiltshire, the Wiltshire Parent Carer Council, ASK and carers.

Already all Wiltshire Council and DC leisure centres have signed up to the scheme as well as 16 businesses from across Wiltshire.  These include a florist, a petrol station and food store, take away food retailers and restaurants, hair and beauty salons, a garage, an independent living retail store, carpet cleaning services and an electrical goods retailer.

They are all supporting the scheme through offering discounts of up to 30 percent off their services. 

And individuals holding a Wiltshire Passport will automatically be eligible for the council’s Leisurecard, a 'show and go' discount scheme that enables people to access their leisure centres at discounted prices.

All participating businesses and organisations display a sticker in their windows, at tills or entrance doors to publicise that the Wiltshire Passport is accepted.

People can also find a full list of participating businesses at www.wiltshire.gov.uk/wiltshirepassport

For more information about signing up to The Key, contact Mary Baker on 01225 771608 or email mary.baker@wiltshire.gov.uk

To find out more about the Wiltshire Passport visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/wiltshirepassport

To register with THE KEY - Click

National Apprenticeship Service - search for apprenticeship vacancies anywhere in the country

Gazette & Herald - Local Jobs Search - looking for a job in and around Wiltshire

Direct.gov Jobseekers - search jobcentreplus vacancies anywhere in the country

Wiltshire Council - for current vacancies with Wiltshire Council

My Career Online - job shop vacancy board linking to local job search websites

National Health Service - search NHS vacancies anywhere in the country

Childcare Jobs - childcare jobs in Wiltshire area

Jobs.co.uk -   search vacancies anywhere in the country

Ministry of Defence - Civilian vacancies with the Ministry of Defence

Fish4job - search vacancies anywhere in the country

Monster.co.uk - search vacancies anywhere in the country

Gisajob.com - search vacancies anywhere in the country

Tuesday - 6.45 - 9.15pm - Urbie parked in the car park of the Woodfalls and Redlynch sports and social club.

Wednesday - 6.45 - 9.15pm - Urbie parked behind the Memorial Hall, Downton

Thursday - 6.30 - 9.00pm - The Old Sarum Community room - Old Sarum

Friday - 8.00 - 10.00pm - Working in partnership with Winterslow Youth Zone at The Pavilion, Barry's Field, Winterslow.

Come along, meet up with mates, take part in what's going on and find out about the other activities happening across the Community Area

For more information contact Tony Nye (Youth Development Coordinator) on 07775 410523 or via tony.nye@wiltshire.gov.uk.

Having earned Leisure Credits the previous easter and summer, young people chose to go to Go Ape in Moors Valley, Ringwood where they had great fun.

Leisure Credits is a scheme where young people take part in work we have organised in their local community and earn Lesiure Credits which they can redeem for trips and activities. 

To find out more about Leisure credits and how you can get involved in earning some credits to go on trips then check out - Leisure Credits Southern Wiltshire or contact Tony Nye (Youth Development Coordinator) on 07775 410523 or via tony.nye@wiltshire.gov.uk

The WAY Agenda For Action 2010-2013 was launched in April 2010 covering four key areas all chosen by Wiltshire young people:

1.  TRANSPORT

2.   HEALTH

3.   THE ENVIRONMENT

4.   LIFE OPPORTUNITIES

You can view the whole Agenda by clicking on the link opposite.  

Check it out here.

NORTH WILTSHIRE:

PURTON, CRICKLADE & WOOTTON BASSETT - KEVIN EMSLEY

MALMESBURY - CHLOE HARRIS-ALBA (UKYP NORTH)

CHIPPENHAM - BARNABY KING & STEPH PUGH

CALNE - LANI BOYCE (UKYP NORTH), CHRIS KING & MIAMPH HANLON

CORSHAM - CHLOE LINTERN

WEST WILTSHIRE:

MELKSHAM - KAYLUM HOUSE

BRADFORD ON AVON - BRYONY BLYTH & HANNAH SCHJEBAL

TROWBRIDGE - HAYDN COLLINS & MELISSA ROBERTS

DEVIZES - FRANKIE HAUGH (UKYP WEST) & JOE DALE

WESTBURY - ELLIE PULLEN (UKYP WEST) GEORGIA FUKE & DAN CAMBURN

WARMINSTER - DEAN LYAL & SABRINA MORICE-BROOM

EAST WILTSHIRE:

MARLBOROUGH - ELLIE VESEY-THOMPSON (UKYP EAST)

PEWSEY - FRANKIE HAUGH (UKYP WEST) & SHANNON WOLLETER

TIDWORTH & LUDGERSHALL - ELLIE VESEY-THOMPSON (UKYP EAST)

SALISBURY - ELEANOR WILLS, LIAM HARDING & CLAIRE SHAW

AMESBURY & DURRINGTON - JAMIE CAPP (UKYP EAST)

DOWNTON - CHARLEY THORNE

MERE & TISBURY - SABRINA MORICE-BROOM

WILTON - REBECCA BOSTOCK

If you want to contact your local WAY rep, please send an email to hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk

The Leisure Credit Scheme was first devised in Mere and Tisbury a number of years ago and whilst it has been developed and improved over the years, the basic ethos has remained the same - namely that young people undertake work which benefits their community and earn leisure credits. A rolling programme of reward activities is on offer and young people choose which activities they would like to take part in - obviously the more credits they gain, the more reward activities they can take part in.

This is what they did in the Easter holidays to earn these credits:-

Mesh Pond, Downton - Young people worked for two days clearing the stagnant stream, they removed rubbish and cleared plants from the area to help protect other plants and help them grow. They cleared plants and silt in the water so that by the time we left the water was flowing again.

A member of the local community, Mike Slade has long championed the clearing of Mesh Pond. Unfortunately he didn't see this work being undertaken as he passed away from cancer. What was especially pleasing for the young people was the fact that a number of local residents made a point of speaking to the young people and commented on how hard the young people were working and the great results they were achieving.

Emma Proctor, Extended Services Cluster Manager for the local area was in contact with Mike and was aware of his vision for the pond.  She will be organising family events in the near future to help keep up with the clearing.

The group are going to go back in the summer and are hoping to build a dipping platform which enable children (of alla ges) to see what wildlife there is living in the water.

Whitebridge Park, Laverstock - Last summer a group treated the benches and a picnic table at the park but ran out of time to complete the job. Tony Nye, Youth Development Co-ordinator, spoke to the Parish Clerk to offer to finish off the job by treating the remaining benches, an offer which was enthusiastically taken up. Therefore a group of young people went back and spent a day in the hot weather rubbing down and treating the benches to finish off the job.

Riverbourne Community Farm, Laverstock - Artist in residence area - Young people undertook various tasks during The day to help prepare the Artist in Residence area.

These tasks included clearing the path and gate into the area which was very over grown with plants, stumps and some barbed wire!  This was cleared so the gate can be used properly. Another task undertaken was helping to clear the barn and area around the barn which will be the main area used by the artist in residence.  This included putting up a fence and smashing up wood which could be used by the artisit to burn underneath baths where she cleans wool for sculptures.

All of these projects were supported by Rose Salmi from BTCV and Youth Action Wiltshire - thank you for your help and support Rose, you were fab.

All of the young people worked incredibly hard, especially considering the hot weather we had and are now very much looking forward to their well earned activities and days out.

Some photos have been uploaded here but as there were so many click the link to Flikr and see more - click

Members: Ian, Will and Jake                                                                                                                      

How did you get that name?  A friend of ours used to say it a lot and shout it out at inappropriate times!

How do you know each other?  From school

Style of music: An eclectic mix

Influences: Nirvana, Weezer

Why did you get into musc?  Will - My older brother plays drums and got me into it. Ian - My Uncle Trevor bought me a plastic guitar that made me want to play.

Myspace/facebook: Not yet, but meaning to set them up soon ...

Interesting facts: Ian once drank a whole bottle of double strengh squash in one go for £1! Will threw up once from drinking mentoes and coke mixed together! Jake has a jellybaby obsession...

What instruments can you all play?  Ian - Ukulele, mouth organ, guitar and bass guitar. Will - drums. Jake - piano, guitar, bass guitar and drums.

Do you play covers?  A few - 'All the small things' by Blink 182, 'Keep on moving' by 5ive and ''Smells like teen spirit' by Nirvana.

Do you write your own songs?  Yes, we do lots of songwriting. Some examples of our songs are 'Just Us', 'What do I know', 'Dragons' and 'Opaque'. We mainly write about life experiences.

Social interests/gigs/festivals: Badminton, table tennis, Greggs. Going to T in the Park, Download and Wireless festivals.

Have you done any gigs yet?  One at a party and some open mic.We also have an interview on Thunder Radio in May.

How did you get that name? It was a joint decision for the name. A decision made between all of the band members.

How do you know each other? We know each other through School and home environments.

What style(s) of music do you like?  Our favourites are deathcore and metalcore

What are your musical influences? Whitechapel, Suicide Silence and classical rock bands such as Iron Maiden and Metallica.

How and why did you get into music? By listening to the music that our parents listeed to and learning styles of music from that.

Personal Profile of each band member: Tom - favourite drink is peach flavoured lipton ice tea.  Miles - loves Dr Pepper Zero.  Jacob - a mate got caught with no clothes on in a chalk pit!

Myspace/facebook/youtube/pics: Facebook - My Space (in the future) and a music video.

What instruments do you all play, and what do you play in the band? Miles is the drummer. Jacob is the guitarist. Tom is a guitarist and there is a keyboard player who sometimes plays, but not all the time.

Do you play covers? If so, what and have you changed the style? No, we prefer to write our own songs rather than doing covers.

If you play your own songs what are they called, what are they about and do you have any lyrics we can put up? We tend to write about things that have influenced our lives.

Social interests and gigs/festivals that you like going to: We have been to Download and Sonosphere and we like Bill Bailey. We have seen him live!

Have you done any gigs yet? If so where? We've done one gig, but we would like to play in the Chapel and this is what we feel we are working towards.

The withdrawal of EMA means that students from low income families will no longer receive funding to help them access their further education courses. This payment has previously helped students pay for a reduced rate travel pass offered by Wiltshire Council.

Post 16 students currently pay either £190 if they are from a low income family or a standard charge of £378. The council will reduce the existing lower rate annual charge by 26 percent to £140. The reduction will be offset by a small increase in the charge for other students of 5.8 per cent to £400 per year. Students can continue to pay by instalments to help spread the cost of the annual charge.

Whoever wins the most and gets their name engraved on the shield will be the year's winner and they will have the option of taking the shield or a trophy home as well as £20 in gift vouchers.

Who I am and where I'm from....

Hello im Joe Ollerhead from Poulshot which is a small village near Devizes which is a bit boring. I do vocals in a band called Blood Legacy and we play brutal death/ thrash metal I also play guitar in another band called Xenos Paradox which is a mix of a few genres which is fun.  

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....

 Brilliant and great for everyone who is involved.

Turn ons........

Metal and food that is my general turn ons and also playing shops in my bands

Turn Offs

Bring Me the Horizon and metal/hardcore covers of pop songs 

Fav Music.......

All that remains, Arch enemy, The black dahlia murder, Chimaira, Devil driver, Lamd of god, Killswtich engage, Mastodon, Meshuggah, Oceano, The red shore, white chapel, nile, decapitated, SLAYER!!!!!!!!!!!

Catch Joe live every Thurs 2-3pm

• Higher Education (full or part-time)
• A job with training
• Take a break (gap year, voluntary work).

This booklet will help you explore all of these options.

There are many factors that will influence your decision including:

• Your attitude to study
• The job or career you have in mind
• Your financial situation
• The state of the job market.

If, at this stage, you really don't know what to do, keep your options open.  Apply for a range of courses, jobs or gap year opportunities and make your final decision when your results come through. 

Your Way Forward can help you make these decisions.

We need to raise in excess of £700,000 each year to cover the running costs of the Appeal. We receives NO government funding but relies totally on the generosity of the businesses and people of Swindon and Wiltshire to support our fundraising needs.

 Everyone with in the County has a stake in Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

It is an essential and unique service that serves Wiltshire, Swindon and in some incidences, Bath, Oxford and Gloucester. We are there for those life and death situations where the speed of the helicopter and the skill of the crew play a major part in the outcome of the patient.

We fly 19 hours a day 365 days of the year and have the ability to take the seriously injured to the most appropriate hospital, quickly and safely and it can reach any part of Wiltshire within 11 minutes.

Almost half of the incidents we attend are Road Traffic Collisions across the county, Motorways included.  Other incidents include, horse riding accidents, sporting injuries, farm accidents, fires and burns. No two incidences are the same. 

We need your help and support to keep this service in the air! Could you join in one of our challenge events? Get a group of friends together and plan an event together? Volunteer your time at an event?

How ever you'd like to help, we want to hear from you.  Email; caroline.corrigan@gwas.nhs.uk for more information.

Without you we would be grounded!

Sign up and become a member.  WWW.mediahubbub.co.uk

Associate Members have access to exclusive workshops, tours, trips and projects and discounts to most Salisbury Playhouse productions, as well as being able to work towards an Arts Award qualification and the opportunity to become a full Stage '65 member once spaces are available (although this is not compulsary).

Becoming an Associate Member costs £10 (Freetime vouchers are accepted) and membership will last until September. Each September  membership is renewed, unless a full Stage '65 place is available.

Spring/Summer 2011 Activities:

Backstage Tour (age 8-25)

Tuesday 15 February, 5 - 6.30pm, £5

Acting Workshop and Show Trip Packages

A special pre-show acting workshop from Salisbury Playhouse experts with a ticket to a professional show

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Age 14 -25    Saturday 19 March, 12.30pm - 5pm

The Bug and the Butterfly

Age 8-10    Saturday 2 April, 12pm - 3pm

Guys and Dolls

Age 11-13      Saturday 7 May, 12.30pm - 5pm

£20

Stage '65 Performance Packages

Meet the Director and the creative team of a Stage '65 production, take a tour of the stage and a sneak peek of the costume designs before a performance. See the show and then have  apost-show chat with the Youth Theatre Company

Tuesday 18 March     Women of Troy     £7

Tuesday 14 June         Around the World in 80 Days       £8

Lighting Workshop (age 11-13)

Thursday 24 February, 6.30pm - 8pm

Discover how to create different lighting effects onstage - and even operate the lights yourself, with Salisbury Playhouse's professional Lighting Designer

£8

Special Discounts include:

£5 tickets to most Salisbury Playhouse professional productions (restrictions apply - please ask Box Office for details)

20% discounts on refreshements at the Bar (excludes alcohol; applies only for Associate Member)

£4 off Plays in a Day (normally £20)

£3 off Drama Days (normally £15)

£5 off Creative Communities (normally £30)

Visit the Box Office to become an Associate Member. If you have any queries please call 01722 320 333

who I am and where I'm from....

I'm Mark and hail from sunny ‘nam! Failing that I can be found at the nearest gig or pub!

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....
Spark is brilliant! It’s a great way for younger people to get what they want played by themselves, and it also gets people to connect to different types of music than they would normally listen too. It’s also a great way for me to expand the fact that I want to become a music journalist as currently I cover local music on my website so now I can get these local bands played to people! – www.electrifiedmusic.co.uk ;)

Turn ons........
Wowa bit direct arnt you? I do love a good laugh and smile and being able to kick back and chill. But motorbikes, that is my huge love, cannot beat the sound of a Harley!

Turn offs.......
Main stream music which has no thoughts of it’s own, their just following what the bosses push at them…

Fav Music......
Its got to me Motorhead, anyone who knows me knows that!

Catch mark Thursdays at 4pm!

Going back to college to study or starting a new job can seem like a daunting prospect after having a child, maybe you want a change of direction and need help deciding on the right course -

The sessions will include:

• Career Development and Course Advice
• Job Search Skills including CB writing and interview skills
• Personal Study skills
• Literacy for education.

Click the downloads to find out the dates and venues for the courses being run....

Check out their own website for futher information and other courses on offer - click

Call in regularly to look at the Connexion's notice board.

Ask family and friends if they have any contacts or know of any possible work.

Check local notice boards e.g. shop windows, shopping centres, factories etc.

Write a CV and keep it up-to-date.

Take your CV to as many potential employers as possible.

When calling in to employers to ask for work dress neatly and tidily - first impressions do count.

If you are applying by post you will need a covering letter.

Employers do not always reply - so keep your own record of the applications you've made and follow them up if you don't hear anything.

Don't get disheartened and don't give up - getting a job is often about being in the right place at the right time.

• 38% of these are employed as ICT Managers or IT Strategy and Planning Professionals, 30% as Software Professionals, 11% IT Operations Technicians.  The remaining 21% are aplit between various occupations.
  
  
• Employers are particularly interested in people with good team working and problem solving skills, who can communicate well.
  
  
• Wiltshire has a wealth of ICT related companies; 98% of Wiltshire is now covered by broadband.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	4,400
Wiltshire	6,300

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Database Assistant/Clerk	£18,144
IT User Support Technician	£26,375
Software Professional	£38,568

• 54% of employees work in the Agricultural livestock and Agricultural crops industries.
  
  
• 96% of the businesses within the sector employ less than ten people. 
  
  
• Voluntary workers are a significant source of labour.  Up to 500,00 regular and casual volunteers work within the sector across the UK.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	400
Wiltshire	2,300

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Veterinary Nurses and Assistants	£14,297
Forestry Worker	£19,963
Vet	£33,583

• 73% work in the National Health Service, 26% in the independent sector and just under 2% may work in the voluntary sector.
  
  
• The majority of occupations are linked to hospital activities and community health services - including people working in nursing homes, private surgeries and places like pharmacists and opticians.
  
  
• Social care includes caring for old people.  Old people may be cared for in hospital, in a residential care home or in their own home.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	9,100
Wiltshire	20,500

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Dental Nurse	£14,818
Hospital Porter	£17,618
Nurse	£24,958

• There is an increasing trend for jobs in retail to be part-time.
  
  
• Despite the growth of internet based shopping, shops and stores remain the dominant retail format throughout the UK.  It is likely that they will remain the favourite way of shopping for some time to come.
  
  
• Formal qualifications are not always necessary - candidates can learn on the job.  Retailers tend to be more interested in experience and skills.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	12,400
Wiltshire	18,100

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Retail Cashier/Check Out Operator	£8,167
Sales and Retail Assistant	£9,619
Call Centre Agent/Operator	£14,752

If you are thinking about your future career it's important to find out about what jobs are available and what's likely to be happening in the future.

It also gives you advice on how to get the career you want.

It's never too early to plan for your future.

Please click on the links below to find out more:

• Where do people work in Wiltshire
  
  
• Ten things you need to know about the labour market and jobs for the future
  
  
• Tips for young jobseekers
  
  
• Local Market Information Leaflets
  
  
  Business, Administration & Finance
  
  
  Construction and the Built Environment
  
  
  Creative & Media
  
  
  Engineering
  
  
  Hair and Beauty
  
  
  Hospitality including Catering
  
  
  Information Technology
  
  
  Land-based & Environment
  
  
  Manufacturing & Product Design
  
  
  Public Services
  
  
  Retail Business
  
  
  Society, Health and Development
  
  
  Sport & Active Leisure
  
  
  Travel & Tourism
  

That can also mean you are legally responsible for your actions, so it's important to know what's what.

Download leaflet At what age can I....? to find out more information.

• Job Ideas and Information
  
  
• Y9 Options Choices
  
  
• Options after Y11
  
  
• Jobs and Training (16-19)
  
  
• Options at 18
  
  
• Applying to University
  
  
• Taking a Gap Year
  
  
• Other Options
  
  
• Study and Work Abroad
  

The Popular band Radio Monkey have changed there name to ‘The Small Town Rivals’, but don’t worry there still the same band making the same great catchy ‘Indie’ pop music we all know and love.

For all those who having been living under a rock The Small Town Rivals (formerly known as Radio Monkey) formed in early 2010 and consist of three young boys from Wiltshire/Dorset.  These boys are Jamie Easton - Guitar/Vox, George Appleton - Drums/Vox and Lawrence Mills - Bass.

The band are very indie taking influences from such artists as Jamie T, Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferdinand, Bloc Party and YouMeAtSix. They take these bands are combine the styles into something fresh and new.

With 2010 just starting the band are sure that they will secure even more of a fan base than they already have.

Also look out for new tunes, a more grown up sound and an E.P very soon.

http://en-gb.facebook.com/pages/The-Small-Town-Rivals/291971684099

www.myspace.com/thesmalltownrivals

For more details about Wiltshire YFC, please phone 01249 446523, or e-mail wiltshire.yfc@farming.co.uk

National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs:  www.nfyfc.org.uk

• There are 1.9 million regular volunteers in the active learning, leisure and well-being sector in England.
  
  
• While most jobs for the Olympics will be concentrated in London, areas such as the South West of England are likely to benefit from visitors to the games extending their holidays and from athletes making use of training facilities. 
  
  
• Apprenticeships are increasingly being used as a route into working in this sector.  These enable people to earn while they learn the skills they will need within their chosen career.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	1,000
Wiltshire	2,600

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Leisure Theme Park Attendant	£6,062
Fitness Instructor	£11,543
Sport and Leisure Assistant	£12,366

• Because is covers such a large area manufacturing and product design has two sector skills councils presenting it - SEMTA and ProSkills.
  
  
• A higher number of people in Wiltshire work in various forms of manufacturing (especially electrical equipment and apparatus, food products and beverages, furniture, rubber, pharmaceuticals and plastic goods) than the national average.
  
  
• Apprenticeships can offer a more vocational route into work and gaining qualifications.  There are more apprenticeships in engineering and manufacturing than any other sector.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	9,400
Wiltshire	8,700

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Packers, Bottlers, Canners and Fillers	£15,802
Plant and Machine Operatives	£24,805
Tool Makers, Tool Fitters/Markers-Out	£25,508

• Training is a fundamental aspect of employment in the armed services.
  
  
• While no formal educational qualifications are necessary for many jobs in this sector, applicants are required to pass various entrance tests.
  
  
• Most people entering one of the armed forces as an officer have a level 3 qualification or a degree.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	1,300
Wiltshire	8,200

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
New entrants to all services	£13,645
Security Guard	£21,344
Sergeant (Army/RAF/Royal/Marines)	£32,756

• Jobs in leisure, sport and tourism involve helping others to enjoy their time outside of work, but can also involve helping people to get from one place to another on business.
  
  
• Surveys of employers show that skills such as customer service, communication and problem solving are essential in the sector.
  
  
• Apprenticeships are increasingly being used as a route into working in this sector.  These enable people to earn while they learn the skills they will need within their chosen career.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	1,000
Wiltshire	2,600

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Tourism Information Centre Assistant	£10-15,000
Travel Agent	£17,328
Air Travel Assistant	£22,897

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• 42% of people work part-time in the hairdressing and beauty sector.
  
  
• People working in beauty salons have to be 'multi-skilled', as they often have to provide a wide range of treatments to clients.  This means that training is important in keeping up to date with techniques.
  
  
• An apprenticeship can be a good route into these careers.  Taking an apprenticeship means you are learning while you are employed.  As well as taking a qualification, you will also cover key skills that are essential for a successful career.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	300
Wiltshire	800

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Hairdresser/Barber	£10,605
Beautician	£13,179
Salon Manager	£16,272

• Even companies that have had job losses during the recession continue to recruit.
  
  
• There will be a greater need for more flexible, 'multi-skilled' workers, who have both electrcal and mechanical engineering skills.
  
  
• Apprenticeships can be a good route into a skilled trade.  They can offer a more vocational route into work and gaining qualifications.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	9,400
Wiltshire	8,700

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Assembler/Routine Operator	£19,824
Telecom Engineer	£27,279
Plant and Machine Operator	£29,951

• Particular skills shortages exist for chefs/cooks and for managers with a range of skills including people management, problem solving, commercial and business skills.
  
  
• Many hospitality companies are international and offer opportunities to work abroad.
  
  
• A large number of students work in this sector on a part-time or temporary basis.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	5,700
Wiltshire	15,300

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Waiter/Waitress	£7,639
House Keeper	£11,549
Hotel Porter	£14,023

• 92% of organisations employ less than 10 people.
  
  
• A large number of people employed in construction work for small businesses or are self-employed.
  
  
• Even companies that have had job losses during the recession continue to recruit, and an aging workforce means that replacement workers will be required for the foreseeable future.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	4,400
Wiltshire	9,200

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Painter & Decorator	£22.654
Bricklayer, Mason	£22,664
Carpenter/Joiner	£24,429

• 85% of creative sector organisations employ fewer than 5 people; over 20% operate as freelancers.
  
  
• Although the number of people employed locally in the creative industries is small, this is an important wealth generating sector.
  
  
• It's a tough business.  More people want to work in it than there are jobs.  You might have to do unskilled jobs on your way up the career ladder.

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	1,000
Wiltshire	1,200

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Graphic Designer	£24,943
Photographer	£26,301
Journalist/Editor	£33,385

• 29% of people in finance have administrative or secretarial jobs (such as counter clerks, pensions and insurance clerks and account clerks).
  
  
• 14% of the workforce are managers or senior managers, with 20% professional or technical staff.
  
  
• 60% of the financial services workforce is aged between 24 to 44.
  

Numbers employed locally
Swindon	7,600
Wiltshire	3,900

How much could I earn? Average annual salary (£s)
Receptionist	£12,055
Legal Secretary	£18,119
Accountant (Chartered/Certified)	£37,948

Sandwiched between two of the best Rock shows out there JB will be playing the best in Indie and Alternative music plus regular features and entertaining banter You would be crazy to miss it.

Listen to Spark Radio Weds night 7pm - 8pm

I suddenly realised the other day ... I've now been with Spark for 5 years! :D

And in upcoming shows, myself and Joe (my new co-presenter) will be celebrating with some great music from the last 5 years, including your requests! Tune in to the show every Thursday from 6-7pm, to hear the best in Dubstep, DnB, Electro, House, and your requests. And chat to us live in the studio via www.JamieBellinger.com (Click Radio!).

JB.

If you want to carry on studying after Year 11 there are lots of opportunities for full-time study in schools and colleges, or you can choose to study part-time by doing an apprenticeship or as part of a pre- employment programme.

These are the types of courses you can do - look further down the page to see where * you can study.  

Qualifications and levels
Foundation Learning
The Diploma
GCSEs
AS/A levels
International Baccalaureate
Apprenticeships
Vocational Qualifications

If you want help in making your choices contact Connexions

You can find out more about the courses available at Wiltshire schools, colleges and training providers by clicking on the links below.

Remember that you may have to travel and pay your travel expenses when you go to further education. Check out Wiltshire’s Students Transport Advice Network - STAN – to see if you qualify for subsidised transport  or whether there are special bus services available.

To look at public transport options consult the Traveline website.

Some Wiltshire students go to schools and colleges outside Wiltshire - remember that you will usually have to pay your own travel expenses. For a list of schools and colleges outside Wiltshire go to the bottom of this page.

Sixth Forms in Wiltshire

Sixth form offer a range of courses at levels 1, 2 and 3. Most offer AS and A levels with some GCSEs but they may also offer other courses such as the Diploma, International Baccalaureate, BTECs and other vocational courses and Foundation Learning. Go to their websites to see what they have on offer.

Abbeyfield School, Chippenham
Avon Valley College, Durrington
Bishop Wordsworth’s School, Salisbury
Clarendon College, Trowbridge
Corsham School, Corsham
Devizes School, Devizes
Hardenhuish School, Chippenham
John Bentley School, Calne
John of Gaunt School, Trowbridge
Kingdown School, Warminster
Malmesbury School, Malmesbury
Matravers School, Westbury
Melksham Oak Community School, Melksham
Sarum Academy, Salisbury
Sheldon School, Chippenham
South Wilts Grammar School, Salisbury
St Augustine’s Catholic College, Trowbridge
St John’s School and Community College, Marlborough
St Laurence School, Bradford on Avon
Wellington Academy, Ludgershall
Wootton Bassett School, Wootton Bassett

Further Education Colleges in Wiltshire

Wiltshire College has sites in Chippenham, Lackham, Salisbury and Trowbridge and offers a vast range of courses including Foundation Learning  and courses at levels 1, 2 and 3 as well as some courses at levels 4 and 5 (higher education courses at degree level). Click here to see what Wiltshire College offers.

Training Providers operating in Wiltshire

Training Providers provide work-related training such as apprenticeships and where you would work and study. They also offer work based training which allow you to study for NVQs and personalised programmes of study and preparation for work, called Foundation Learning.

Protocol Skills Training - Foundation Learning in all areas
Haddon Training - Equine, Animal Care and Saddlery
Above Bar College - Hairdressing
FNTC Training - Childcare
North Wessex Training - Foundation Learning in all work areas
JTL Training - Electrical and Plumbing
Remit - Motor Vehicle

Schools and Colleges outside Wiltshire which some students from Wiltshire may attend - remember that you will usually have to pay your own travel expenses.

Andover College
Brockenhurst College                   
Burgate School                                 
Cirencester College                                        
City of Bath College                        
City of Bristol College                    
Frome Community College                                         
Hartpury College             
New College, Swindon
Peter Symonds College, Winchester  
Sparsholt College                           
Swindon College                             
Totton College                                 
Yeovil College

 Back to top of page

Change is gonna come!

• Keep in learning/training for as long as possible.  There is increasing demand, even in traditional craft occupations, such as plumbing, electrician and motor mechanic, for level 3 qualification.
  
  
• Lifelong learning is essential if you are to have the skills you need for employment and personal fulfilment.
  
  
• 'Functional skills' are important.  Functional skills include english, maths and ICT.
  
  
• The growth of technical and skilled employment in Wiltshire means there is a need for a more educated and qualified workforce, able to adapt to the changing needs of the workplace.
  
  
• The number of routine, unskilled jobs is decreasing.
  
  
• We're working in global economy - many companies now trade worldwide.  The workforce is more mobile.  Young people may need to be willing to travel to get the right job.
  
  
• Relevant work experience can help you get a job.
  
  
• Employers like a good record of attendance and punctuality.  Employers are also impressed by people who participate in volunteering.
  
  
• There are still opportunities for people with the right qualifications in most industries.  Even with those organisations that have cut staff in the last few years.
  
  
• Do not be too proud to take a job you think may be beneath you.
  
  

JOBS FOR THE FUTURE - The ones to watch

In 2009 the Government (Labour) published strategies for four key sectors that  it thinks will be increasingly important:

• Advances manufacturing - Wiltshire is traditionally recognised for its strong manufacturing base and excellence in high-value manufacturing, which involves advanced levels of design and scientific skills adding value to technology.
  
  
• Low carbon opportunities - This includes the development of 'green jobs', environmental services and sustainable new technologies such as wind and solar power.
  
  
• Life sciences - This sector covers medical equipment manufacture, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and research and development in life sciences.  It also includes the healthcare sector, principally represented by the NHS.
  
  
• Digital enabling technologies - This includes the development of digital technologies and the skills to support them.
  

It is envisaged that many Wiltshire and Swindon companies - Dyson, Honda, Intel, Johnson Matthey - will be used as a test bed for the low carbon agenda.

There are plans for the electrification of the London to Swansea rail line.  This could boost the regional economy by as much as £120 million per year by reducing travel times between London and Bristol.

• Public administration, education and health - around 49,000 people
  
  
• Distribution (includes retail), hotels and restaurants - around 44,600 people
  
  
• Finance, IT and other business activities - around 11,500 people
  
  
• Engineering and manufacturing - around 8,700 people
  
  
• Transport, storage and communication - around 9,800 people
  
  
• Construction - around 9,200 people
  
  

A higher number of people in Wiltshire work in various forms of manufacturing (especially electrical euipment and apparatus, food products and beverages, furniture, rubber, pharmaceuticals and plastic goods) than the national average.

In addition, there is higher than average employment in public administration and defence, due to military establishments around the county.

With many famous landmarks situated in the area, such as Salisbuy Plain, Stonehenge and other ancient sites, there is a strong tourism industry.

Although the number of people employed locally in the creative industries is small, this is an important wealth generating sector.

There are lots of other industry sectors you can work in.

When looking for a job don't forget about the smaller companies.  In total more people work for smaller companies than the large ones.

• Broaden your horizons to related professions
  
  
• Consider paid or unpaid work experience
  
  
• Do not be too proud to use contacts to get a first break
  
  
• Do not be too proud to take a job you think may be beneath you
  
  
• Be imaginative
  
  
• Consider setting up your own business
  
  
• Take advice

A Play Partner is a sensible, reliable caring young person aged 13-16 years from a mainstream school, who is willing to befriend a child (or teenager) with disabilities.

Interested? Then click the downloads to find out more and how to get involved....,..

Join me, Jamie Bellinger, the longest-serving presenter on Spark, and my new co-presenter for 2010, Joe Cavo, for the longest-running show on Spark. Five years now! You can count on us to send some huge tunes your way, from electro to dubstep to dnb, and the occasional classic anthem to take you back. And if you're a budding producer, band, or DJ, send me your material and I'll be more than happy to put it out there.

Catch us here on Spark every Thursday from 6-7pm ... and chat to us and other listeners during the show at www.JamieBellinger.com ... Just click "Radio"!

Jamie.

All it takes is one great idea. So what are you waiting for  This could be your chance to get your community moving and score some skills on the way.

Find out all the information by going to United Sports Relief.

Is my project eligible?

Projects must:

Be run and managed by people between the ages of 14 and 25

Clearly benefit the local community

Benefit the people running the project; and

Be a new or developing project.

For more info visit the website; www.princes-trust.org.uk/communitycash/

MusicMatters is a 12 month music project for 13-19 year olds in Wiltshire giving young people the chance to experience everything to do with writing, playing and recording music. 

The project is managed by Wiltshire Youth Arts Partnership and delivered in partnership with Wiltshire Music Centre, Wiltshire Music Service, Salisbury Arts Centre, Wiltshire College and Wiltshire Councils Development Services for Young People.  This year the project is funded by the Department of Children, Schools and Families as part of a broader programme of music making for children and young people in Wiltshire called ‘Wiltshire Music Connect.’

The core aims of MusicMatters are to:

• Improve things to do/places to go for young people in Wiltshire through providing high quality participatory music activities
• Ensure activities support the every child matters agenda and are geared towards developing skills, raising self esteem and encouraging achievement
• work with hard to reach young people - those young people who may be rurally isolated, or have limited access to arts activities
• To provide opportunities for training and professional development throughout the project for older young people and emerging artists
• Enable young people to develop their skills in music and make creative choices  throughout the project
• establish a sustainable project model for future development.

 So if you want to get involved then contact WYAP -http://www.wyap.org.uk/metadot/index.pl?id=0

You may have received a letter saying someone is looking for you or you may have seen a 'missing' poster of yourself.

At Missing People we have a team who support families of people who have gone missing and we actively try to find missing people. You may be registered as a case with us and your family may be looking for you.

Whatever your situation, we are here to help.

We'd like you to know that you can contact us in complete confidence. You may not want to be in direct contact with your family or for them to know where you are. We understand this. However, you may like us to pass a 'safe and well' message to your family on your behalf. Or maybe you just want to talk your situation through with us.

Ring our confidential Message Home service on Freefone 0800 700 740 or email on messagehome@missingpeople.org.uk. 

Click here to see young people currently missing - click

You can do programmes at three levels, Bronze, Silver or Gold, which lead to a Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
You achieve an Award by completing a personal programme of activities in four sections (five if you're going for Gold).

You'll find yourself helping people or the community, getting fitter,developing skills, going on an expedition and taking part in a residential activity (Gold only).

But here's the best bit - you get to choose what you do!

Your programme can be full of activities and projects that get you buzzing. And along the way you’ll pick up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

 Want to find out more? Go to the D of E site - click

• Be or have been in the care ofWiltshire County Council or Swindon Borough Council,

OR

• Require additional support because of long term health needs or a disability and are themselves or their parents/carers on means tested benefits.

To find out more about the grant email info@wscf.org.uk or look at their own website - www.wscf.org.uk/

Alternatively contact the following people below:-

Programme Director:
Heidi Yorke
heidi.yorke.@wscf.org.uk

Grants Officers:
Taryn George
taryn.george@wscf.org.uk

Chan Chitroda
chan.chitroda@wscf.org.uk
Tel : 01380 729284
Fax: 01380 729772

The Shuker Fund applications are reviewed twice a year, in July and October.

If you are interested in applying for a grant from the Shuker Educational Fund, please contact us for further information: Grants Officer, Chan Chitroda - chan.chitroda@wscf.org.uk

It has been set up to honour the memory of Rose Gale, who worked with, supported and inspired very many young people during her life.

The aim of the charity is to raise funds to provide small but meaningful grants to young people who might otherwise slip through the net of support from other charities or public funds. Rose Gale Trust also recognises that sometimes funds need to be made available quickly, because not all young people can wait months for the result of an application.

The trustees are consulting with young people to find out what the priorities of Rose Gale Trust should be, but aim to keep the criteria as wide as possible so as not to exclude young people because of their particular individual need, situation, or idea. And, whenever appropriate, trustees and their advisers aim to signpost young people on to others sources of sustainable or long term support.

The Rose Gale Trust – a step up for young people

developing skills and experience
getting training and education
needing help in a crisis
helping others
having great ideas

Applications for grants

The Trust is now accepting applications for grants - full details of the process and an application form are now available - apply for a grant

We will be making awards every month; the first awards will be made at the end of February 2010.

Think your youth group could be doing more to help?

Download the greengauge scheme on the link below for loads of ideas on how you can get started, plus find case-studies of what other teenagers around Wiltshire have been doing along with some great websites, resources and organisations who can help you.

For more info, get in touch with Hayley on hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk!

The big news this year was the mystery guest (revealed just days before the event), Trance music legend, Paul Van Dyk. Paul attended the event on Saturday, tried out some of the tech on offer, met some of the guests (including us!), and then played a mammoth 6-hour set at the Gatecrasher BPM after party, in Birmingham. I was hoping to record a chat with Paul for Spark, but the noise in the arena was too loud ... the microphone simply couldn't cope! We also met Rozalla, a dance diva most famous for her big club hits in the 90's, including the legendary anthem "Everybody's Free".

Of course, we took time between breaking our eardrums, to try out some of the latest evolutions in DJ Tech that BPM has to offer. The latest version of Traktor is particularly impressive for mixing and live performance, and I spent a good hour playing with Logic Pro 9, the simply brilliant new production package from Apple. 

BPM is the ideal place for budding young DJ's to network, and it's generally just a great weekend. I'd fully recommend it. 

See all of my photos from BPM 2010 ... click here!

Jamie B.

Find out more on the National Apprenticeship & Vacancy Matching Service website.

The best chance of getting an apprenticeship locally is through your own contacts - does one of your family work for an employer who might take you on?  Did you do work experience with an employer who takes apprentices?  What about your part-time job?.... ask if they have any apprenticeship opportunities.

It is also a good idea to send out speculative letters with a copy of your CV to local companies who may take on apprentices.  Contact your local Connexions Centre for help in writing a CV or speculative letter.

Wiltshire Wheels to Work is a moped loan scheme for people aged 16+ living in Wiltshire and Swindon.

Wiltshire Wheels to Work provides the following to individuals:

A fully road-ready 50cc scooter* for up to 6 months 

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), Breakdown cover, Maintenance costs, Jacket, helmet, gloves and lock 

Back-up support from Community First.  An opportunity to save via a Credit Union scheme towards the costs of your own means of getting around

(*Provisional or full driving licences are needed to ride a Wheels to Work moped.)

For further information please CLICK.

Top asked questions:-

• What is an Apprenticeship?
  
  
• Do I have to pay anything to become an apprentice?
  
  
• Do I get paid?
  
  
• Do I have to pay tax and National Insurance?
  

Find out more on the National Apprenticeship & Vacancy Matching Service website.

The best chance of getting an apprenticeship locally is through your own contacts - does one of your family work for an employer who might take you on?  Did you do work experience with an employer who takes apprentices?  What about your part-time job?.... ask if they have any apprenticeship opportunities.

It is also a good idea to send out speculative letters with a copy of your CV to local companies who may take on apprentices.  Contact your local Connexions Centre for help in writing a CV or speculative letter.

Along with advice about money, handling debt and tax, this site has loads of information on:

• education
  
  
• employment and training
  
  
• environment
  
  
• family and relationships
  
  
• health
  
  
• housing
  
  
• justice and equality
  
  
• sport, leisure and travel (lots about gap years)
  
  
• cyber safety
  

www.ukcoursefinder.com - questionnaire to help you find the right subject

push.co.uk – finding the right university

www.ucas.com -  official information on HE courses, links to University websites & how to apply

thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk – comprehensive HE guide

opendays.com – HE open days

scit.wlv.ac.uk/ukinfo – interactive map of UK higher education institutions

www.aimhigher.ac.uk - complete guide to HE in England

www.hotcourses.com - search for undergraduate, postgraduate and part-time courses

open.ac.uk – studying with the Open University - part-ime degrees

 fdf.ac.uk - what are foundation degrees?

spa.ac.uk – overview of admissions tests

graduate prospects - what do graduates do? what do graduates earn?

unistats.com – includes National Students Survey results

You can also try www.unionview.com for virtual visits to some universities.

Finance for your course:

www.support4learning.org.uk - student finance, funding and benefits

http://www.ucas.co.uk/students/studentfinance/ - student finance pages on UCAS

Click the link below to navigate to the 'notgoingtouni' website!

www.notgoingtouni.co.uk

Also we are looking for young people to be interviewed on the radio so if you, your school or club have a point to make or wish to get your views played out on the radio then let us know - email Spark.Radio@wiltshire.gov.uk

Dont worry listeners shes not leaving but as part of a station revamp is moving show times to 5pm - 6pm so you can still catch her for a  mixture of power ballads and bizarre but true features that will knock your socks off

NEXT SPARK RADIO TRAINING DAYS:

NORTH SPARK RADIO TRAINING DAY:

There is currently no North Spark training day set, but please email Station Manager Jamie Flukes ( jamieflukes@wiltshire.gov.uk ) with your contact details and Spark will contact you as soon as the next North Spark training day is set!

SOUTH SPARK RADIO TRAINING DAY:

There is currently no North Spark training day set, but please email Station Manager Jamie Flukes (jamieflukes@wiltshire.gov.uk ) with your contact details and Spark will contact you as soon as the next South Spark training day is set!

To find out if you are eligible to get student transport click here.

Aged between 16 - 19 and need financial help with transport then check out the Post 16 Student Support Scheme

Chippenham Connexions Centre - 1 Avon Reach, Monkton Hill, Chippenham, SN15 1EE Tel: 01249 449900 email: cnx_chippenham@wiltshire.gov.uk

Salisbury Connexions Centre - Milford House, 43-55 Milford Street, Salisbury, SP1 2BP Tel: 01722 424400 email: cnx_salisbury@wiltshire.gov.uk

Trowbridge Connexions Centre - 1 Wicker Hill, Trowbridge, BA14 8JS Tel: 01225 716450                       email: cnx_trowbridge@wiltshire.gov.uk

Opening Times:

Monday:  9.30am - 5.00pm

Tuesday:  9.30am -5.00pm     

Wednesday:  10.00am - 5.00pm         

Thursday:  9.30am - 5.00pm    

Friday:  9.30am - 4.00pm

We do offer appointments in other areas - you will need to ring the main office to make an appointment...

If you live in Amesbury, Devizes, Marlborough, Mere, Pewsey, Tidworth or Tisbury please ring Salisbury Connexions Centre on 01722 424400 for more information. 

If you live in Malmesbury or Wootton Bassett please ring Chippenham Connexions Centre on 01249 449900 for more information.

If you live in Melksham, Warminster or Westbury please ring Trowbridge Connexions Centre on 01225 716450 for more information

What is the work like?

Hours and environment

Salary and other benefits

Skills and personal qualities

Interests

Getting in

Entry routes

Training

Getting on

Further information

Further reading

Magazines and Journals

It's best to find out all the information you can about the jobs and careers you are considering so that you can make the right choice and best plans for your future. Go straight to the A-Z search now.

Making Choices

Education

Free time

Health

Housing

Law, your rights and citizenship

Money

Relationships

Travel and transport

Work and training

This is a really comprehensive database, but you need a password to log in (your school postcode if you are at a state school in Wiltshire). Go to eclips now.

gapyear.com - year out ideas

yearoutgroup.org – gap year ideas

gogapyear.com – essential gap year advice

bunac.org.uk – work, teach and volunteer abroad

lattitude.org.uk – voluntary work overseas

statravel.co.uk – student travel

studentsabroad.com – travelling & studying abroad

csv.org.uk – Community Service Volunteers

volunteering.org.uk - UK volunteering opportunities

yini.org.uk – Year in Industry

Choose a person to be you’re "in case of emergency” contact

In your address book record their number under the heading ICE. 

Inform your ICE contact you have chosen them.

Does your school:

• Recognise and support you for who you are?
  
  
• Always challenge biphobia, homophobia, sexism and transphobia?
  
  
• Acknowledge and support your family?

The Schools OUT Student Tool Kit is for young people in any British secondary educational setting who are – or are perceived to be - lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/transsexual or queer (LGBTQ).

Check out their site - www.schools-out.org.uk/STK/Student_Tool_Kit.htm

If you would like to find out more here are some contact details:-

Web: www.vocationquest.co.uk

Email: enquires@vocationquest.co.uk

Enquiries: 07955 405 288

My name is Troy and I am from the sleepy village of Bromham, not much really happens there so I have to find activities elsewhere…

The name is Karl Matthews and I used to live in Peterborough until 2002 when I moved to Calne, some people call me a city boy, but I actually enjoy going outside and camping, SO THERE!

Your Thoughts On Spark?

Spark is great! Loads of fun to take part in, get to play the music I like, it’s great to get new unknown bands known to the people.

I think it’s awesome because everyone who has their own show on here seems to have different music tastes, meaning that it makes for a much better variety for people to listen to. The people here are also very awesome and you can easily have a laugh with any of them. 

Turns Ons

Not entirely sure what to think here, but I am a nutter for tournament paintball! I enjoy my gaming as a lot of people my age normally do, and I love music! I enjoy going to see bands live. That’s all I can really say without going into too much detail

I enjoy watching anime, playing games, playing my guitar, listening to music, watching films, going to gigs and cheese… why not?

Turn Offs

Not really into the whole pop culture concept, I get bored easily by the same songs being played over and over again…

People who judge other people by their looks there is so much more to the madness

Fav Music

Rock, Punk Rock, Pop Punk, Post Punk Laptop Rap

My music taste consists of Rock, Punk Rock, Pop Punk, Ska Punk and even J-Pop and J-Rock! 

Catch the guys live on Spark Radio Weds 4pm to 5pm

Listen to one of the tracks here and 

Catch Lisa and Sadie Lee every Tuesday 6pm - 7pm live on Spark.

Westbury Youth Centre has taken on three students for the week to experience what working life is like and how the Youth Centre and Youth Service works. These students have been doing various things in and around the centre. Some of these things include stock control, telephone calls, statistics and session planning. They've discovered oppertunities that might never have discovered while finding out how the Youth Centre runs.

Watch this space for updates!

The specific knowledge and skills a coach needs to have/develop depends on:

• Their role (e.g. coach/assistant coach)
• Who they are working with (children, young people, adults)
• At what level they are working (e.g. participation / playing sport / helping someone perform at an elite level)
• What environment they are working in (e.g. community setting or in a school)

In order to for coaches to be able to deliver high quality, safe and effective sessions, WASP have established a local Coaching Support System Network (CSSN) and has been working with a number of partners including Sports Coach UK, Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council and the Education
Department.

Interested in finding out more - download the full brochure

Young People from Amesbury, Calne, Chippenham, Marlborough, Pewsey, Salisbury, Tidworth, Trowbridge and Westbury will be performing work that they have created witha  professional dance artist over the past 12 weeks, exploring the theme of the Cultural Olympiad.

Saturday 3rd July

Theatre on the Hill, St Johns Marlborough

7.00pm - 8.30pm

Tickets cost £5.00

To book your tickets and to support Wiltshire's Young Dancers, then please complete the attached booking form or call the box office on: 01672 517888

DanceXpress is now part of U.Dance and Big Dance 2010, supported by Wiltshire Councils Development Services for Young People, Wiltshire Dancing and WYAP.

In return you get the satisfaction of time and effort well spent.  In addition, volunteering can be a great way to:

• meet new people
  
  
• learn new skills
  
  
• gain useful experience

Whatever skills and experience you have, there is something that you can do.  The best way to see what is available is to look on the do-it database.

Tune into the girls every Monday to hear exclusive new tracks from them, load of great music plus whats happening in their world.

 
Who I am and where I'm from.... I'm Lisa and I come from Salisbury in the "sunny" place known as Wiltshire.

 
Your thoughts on the Spark Radio..... I think Spark Radio is really quite awesome, there is so much good music played on all different kinds of shows and all done by young people. Wow.

 
Turn ons........ Good Music, Guitar, My Band ;) (Two and Three Quarters), The Beatles (Hell Yes) etc etc...

 
Turn offs....... Dubstep (it's not great guys), Music that us girls are expected to like such as Girls Aloud and The Saturdays, no, just no and I can't think of much else...

 
Fav Music...... Two and Three Quarters obviously ;), The Beatles, You Me At Six, Paramore, These New Puritans, Two Door Cinema Club, Brand New, Newton Faulkner, Jack Johnson, Jamie T... The list could literally go on forever

Who I am and where I'm from....

Hey i'm Sadie-Lee and i'm from good ol' Salisbury

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....
 
I think Spark Radio is the snazziest thing since sliced bread and its so fun to present and to listen to! I do both ;)

Turn ons........

 
Hmm...Hugs, Anchorman (Brick the most), My Frieeenndss, My Bands, Family Guy and most of the TV shows on BBC3 :)

Turn offs.......

Spiders are wierd. I hate rude people and people who don't respect other peoples beliefs. hmm...not much else i think. OH WAIT. Celery...eww.

Fav Music......

 
Paramore Rule The Land. Malefice, Avenged Sevenfold, YM@S, Blink182, Two And Three Quarters ;) Caught In The Crossfire. and im open to pretty much everything as long as its not boring :)

Catch the Girls 6pm to 7pm Tuesday nights live on Spark

I'm Joe (A.K.A Rocker Joe), i'm 18 and from Chippenham

Your thoughts on Spark

My thoughts on spark radio are  positive. . It's has a wide variety & is a good way to get local music out & about

 Turn Ons

KISS, Subways, Motorbikes, Dr Girlfriend, Rock, Hardcore, Funk, Metal, anything sort of music really

 Turn Offs

 Grime,  quiet nights, cheesy pop music, healthy food,

Rocker Joe's Request Hour

is a show for the auidence where you can get you tunes out with some shout outs & for local bands to get there recognise...

Join the rocker joe request hour facebook page

send your requests to sparkradio@hotmail.co.uk or post a comment on facebook

sn

Hello...I'm Mel, and I live in Wiltshire a place that could only be improved upon if it rained a bit less.

 Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....

Spark is great, and offers a great alternative to boring radio that does the same things over and over again.

 Turn ons........

Music, live music...and probably some other things I can't think of

Turn offs.......

Boring radio, music that's pointless, and too much rain as I mentioned before.

Fav Music......

Los Campesinos! Xiu Xiu, Pavement, Johnny Foreigner, Parenthetical Girls, Zola Jesus, Former Ghosts, OMD, Dananananaykroyd, Kenickie, The Smiths, Bikini Kill, Joy Division, Elbows Like Swords, Sonic Youth, Why?, Nosferatu D2, Islet, Electrelane.... Are just some...as you can see it's quite a long list but I like to think I have a pretty varied and open minded taste.

Catch Mels Show Thursday Nights from 8- 9pm

Who I am and where I'm from....
I'm Tom Rawson. Sixth former at Bishops. Not much more to say on that front.

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....
It's a great oppurtunity to get experience in radio and community work. It's terrific fun and you work with some truly awesome people.

Turn ons........
Well I don't know if that's to be mentioned here I.... oh, you mean like, generally? The television show LOST is a big love of mine, video games, DVDs, all your typical teenage nerdy things. Adam Sandler.

Turn offs.......
Physical exertion. Tomatoes. Hate 'em. iTunes. Hot weather. Juno. That weird tentacle thing that pulls Luke under in Star Wars IV: A New Hope.

Fav Music......
Big big big Bob Dylan fan. Wheatus. Cat Stevens, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart, Aerosmith, Billy Joel, The Beatles, Bad Religion, oh god this could take ages. Let's just say a lot of older stuff and not Justin Beiber. Oh and I'm not really a big Dance or Electro person. I'm more at home in the 60s - 80s. Though I dabble in dub.

Catch Thomas as part of the new Spark relaunch in Salisbury Tuesdays 5pm - 6pm

Do you want to explore careers and jobs!

Uncertain about your career direction?

Aiming Higher?  Choosing Universities?

Apprenticeships and Work Based Learning

Cick here to find out more...

Do you look younger than you are?

Sign up to the national photographic proof of age scheme and save the embarrassment.

Apply for the card by going to their website - Validate UK

We’ve created this space for you to share what we think is good, look at what’s not, share experiences of things that have gone wrong and show you ways you can get yourself out of bad situations.

Have a look at this great site: Think U Know

If police stop you, they must tell you why they have stopped you, their name, the police station they’re from and the fact that you can have a copy of the search record.

You don’t have to answer their questions but stay calm and give your name and address.

Don't be offensive or rude you run the risk of being arrested if you are! You don’t need to answer any other questions until you’ve received legal advice.

You can find out more about being under arrest or what happens next by following the links.  Find out your rights!

Just go to Connexions Direct - click!

Calculate Your Units?

Take the Drink Check Calculator.....

Are you eligible?

Jobseeker's Allowance is for people who are available for and actively looking for (seeking) work. 

If you are unemployed and aged 16-17 you will only be able to claim Jobseeker's Allowance in exceptional circumstances.  To find out if you qualify, go to the Directgov - Jobseeker's Allowance website.

The first place for latest gig information and music news.

For those that dont know;

Who I am and where I'm from....

I am Luke Johnstone and I'm currently on a BTEC National Diploma In TV & Film Production at Wiltshire College, Chippenham. I'm very musical and I play a selection of musical instruments. These are the Piano, Synthesizer, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar, Drums, Trumpet and I sing and scream. I love Rock, Metal, Industrial, Gothic, Progresive Rock, Punk, Ska Punk, Dance, Trance, Electronic, Reggae and Classical. I'm also in an Alternative Rock/Metal band called Final Thoughts.

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....

I think it's just a great way of getting young people to enhance their interest in music and today's world in which we live! We have got a very wide selection of music for you! Log in and listen up!

Turn ons........

Rock, Metal, playing music, oh and indian food!

Turn offs.......

Absolutely despise RnB and Rap

Fav Music......

Disturbed,
Korn,
Pantera,
Slipknot,
DevilDriver,
System Of A Down,
Placebo,
Muse,
Red Hot Chili Peppers,
Stone Sour,
Avenged Sevenfold,
Def Leppard,
Children Of Bodom,
Saxon,
Rammstein,
Paramore,

Niall McCaughan

Who I am and where I'm from...

My name is Niall McCaughan, I'm 15 years old and currently attend The George Ward School, in which I'm in Year 11. I live in Melksham, just like Luke, isn't it just a great town...

What are your thoughts on Spark Radio...

I first came across Spark Radio for a couple of days in July when I went on Work Experience. I loved it! :D I think its a great opportunity for young people to express themselves to others, and even better its via the radio! :)

Turn Ons...

Well I think I'll keep those to myself ;) x

Turn Offs...

Potatoes, mashed or boiled. Being ripped off, and the football player Cristiano Ronaldo :)

Favourite Music...

Nirvana,
Metallica,
AC/DC,
Guns N Roses,
Arctic Monkeys,
JET,
Fatboy Slim,
The Jam,
The Prodigy,
Queen,
Rage Against The Machine,
and Jimi Hendrix.

LISTEN TO LUKE AND NIALL ON SPARK RADIO, EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 6-7pm!

The Caypig Young People get to make choices on what they would like to have in the Youth Centre after the Re-Fit of the Youth Centre in the near future.

The Young People wanted new seating ,Computers to  be Up-graded ,new table tennis table, New bar stools.Air hockey and a football table.

Also young people wanted a games room and quite area .

What better way to start your weekend off

To complete the build of a kit car and see it driven at Castle Combe, The participants will be rewarded with a go karting session.

The young people will learn how a car works and develop mechanical understanding and skills

1. Must be committed to the project

2. Able to do practical tasks

3. Be prepared to observe

4. Prepared to keep a photo diary of the projects to show your learning

The project will start in September 2009 to March 2010</p>\r\n<p>For more information contact Richard Williams or Dave Richards at the Bridge Centre

Tel : 01249 655249

The Young Parents Group done a presentation on what they got out of the WYPOF money that they recevied Like First Aid Course,Music Sessions with their Children,Food Handing Course ,Books and a Trip to Bristol Zoo .

IF IT IS SUCCESSFUL THEY WILL BE APPLYING FOR A WYPOF GRANT TO SUSTAIN IT THROUGH OUT THE YEAR. 

LEARN HOW TO TAKE PICTURES TO A BASIC STANDARD AND TURN THEM INTO CD COVERS OR POSTERS AND MAYBE EVEN FOR PRESS RELEASES AND AT THE SAME TIME  GAIN A RECOGNISED ACCREDITATION. DAY AND TIME TO BE DECIDED – LOOK OUT FOR POSTERS

Christmas Lantern's Workshop,Dates Tuesday 18th & 25th Nov 2008,Time 7.00pm to 9.00pm 

Parade 28th Nov ,Ring Julie 01380 722598 more details

chill out,
run around the hall with basketball, football or other games,
get advice and information,
pool tournaments,
meet with mates,
chat with youth workers,
have fun!

If you have, then why not get yourself nominated for a Wiltshire Young Peoples Award.

You will have to have shown:-

Personal and social development

Encourged other young people to get involved

Listen to other young people and help them achieve their goals

Promote the needs of young people to your community

If you have done any of these and would like to find out more then speak to your Youth Development Co-ordinator who can put your name forward.

The closing date for applications is Friday 10th October. 

They have made it for a number of reasons. 

They are aware that, as a group, they do not get a ‘good press’.  They want to show they are willing to face up to their responsibilities as parents, and that they recognise their importance in the lives of their children.

They want this film to help inform the national debate about teenage parenthood, challenge stereotypical prejudices, and remind us that ‘dads matter too’. 

They intend to 'launch' it towards the end of next month.

Have a look at the film so far - www.dads-matter-too.blogspot.com

You know that bit of land you walk past every day and think someone should really clean that up and make it wonderful for all the wildlife and people round here. Now’s your chance to do it yourself.

Check out the BBC Breathing Place website to find out how to get involved.

Its aim is to give young people aged up to 25 an opportunity to help combat crime, it will challenge you to put some of your ideas for your own community into practice.

There are no real restrictions to projects; your ideas can either be simple and down to earth or pioneering and adventurous. To find out more, click here for an application form.

Find out more by going to the new Crimebeat website.

vcashpoint is offering grants of up to £2,500 to young people aged 16 to 25 in England who want to set up their own volunteering project in their community, creating at least three new opportunities for young people to volunteer. A total of £1 million is available.

The closing dates are the 25th April and the 18th July 2008.

DO YA!?  This year, Youth Action Network is running a DO YA!? campaign to tie in with national Volunteers’ Week, which takes place every year between 1st – 7th June.  

The campaign will be a call to action for young people to do Youth Action and it has 2 aims: To promote Youth Action locally, regionally and nationally and; To encourage more young people to volunteer.  There are lots of opportunities for both young people and organisations to get involved so visit

www.youth-action.org.uk to find out more.

UKYP Make A Pledge.  If you are a young person who feels passionate about issues like climate change, knife and gun crime, and sex and relationships education then why not do something about it? Complete the form (link below) to tell UKYP what you volunteer and pledge to do by the end of 2008.  

For more information go to www.ruralyouth.com

Young people for respect and understanding

•  
  • Are you an entrepreneurial young person, between the ages of 11 and 21?
  • Would you like to promote understanding and solve conflict in your community?
  • Do you have an idea of how to do this through sport?
  • Want to find out more? Phone: 08453670770  E-mail: sportrelief@unltd.org.uk Visit:www.unltdsportreliefawards.org.uk

Then an UnLtd Sport Relief Award might be for you...

....all it takes is one great idea. So what are you waiting for?

This could be your chance to get your community moving and score some skills on the way!

Latest News - to find out what they are focusing on check out ww.ukyp.co.uk

If you ‘turn the page’ or click on an article in the contents page you go straight there! In addition there are ‘live’ links to websites or useful downloads providing further information. Similarly, when the magazine invites you to email for more information, a click will automatically open your email programme.

Sign up to the online version by clicking here.

Young Assessors wrote this song themselves and hired in an independent music producer to help them put the backing track together. Click here to check out our latest CD Respect 

We are looking to recruit new members to join our team.

Lana, Trained Young Assessor said " Young Assessors is a group of young people who meet once a week and train for a period of around 16 weeks.

This training involves looking at the world and different types of people in a different view, also sharing and comparing personal and political opinions. 

The reasons for trianing is that at the end of this process we are all qualified to inspect different youth centres around Wiltsire.  The reasons for these inspections are all about improving youth centres to a young persons standard".

Lana also quoted - " I am the best Young Assessor EVER" - July 08

The training is accredited so we get a qualification for taking part. It's also free and transport is provided to and from each session. The training ongoing, so there will be lots of different opportunities to join. We inspect youth centres as our main and most consistent project - this is ongoing throughout the year and we work alongside staff in the Youth Development Service.

The Young Assessors Programme is managed by Wiltshire County Council's Youth Development Service.

To take a look at more information and to find out how to get involved check out the Young Assessors Flyer.  If you are interested then complete the Young Assessors application form.

If you would like to talk to someone then contact Hayley Bamborough on 01249 652185 or send an email: hayleybambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk