A CHARD school has been awarded ‘champion status’ for the second year running by the National Citizenship Service.

NCS is a government funded scheme designed to build the skills of 16 and 17 year olds so they are ready for life after school.

Holyrood Academy has been celebrated as the top school in the area for recruiting students to the scheme last year, and they have even more pupils taking part this year.

Emma Higman, independent careers advisor at Holyrood, said “For the second consecutive year, Holyrood Academy has seen a significant number of students signing up for the NCS Summer Programme facilitated by Activate.

“Holyrood is a fantastic role model for other schools, demonstrating the value of being involved in a programme designed to encourage students to venture outside their comfort zone, enhance their CV and to learn new skills.”

Flavia Kumar, school and student engagement officer for Activate, said “Holyrood has worked so hard to support us with student recruitment for the programme and as a result, is seeing an impressive development in their students.

"Many Holyrood NCS Graduates have been selected to mentor and support new students on the programme with us this summer. We have awarded the Academy with a commemorative plaque to recognise their fantastic contribution.”