The inaugural Young Leaders’ Conference was held recently in the Prospect Theatre. 56 student delegates from nine local schools attended, along with the College’s Students’ Association members. The focus of the one day event was ‘Community Engagement’ and how these young leaders might influence their fellow students to become a proactive part of their communities.    

Rob Young from National Union of Students spoke about what it means to be an involved member of society. From politics to volunteering and the university lifestyle, Rob covered a range of topics that are affecting and will affect young people. Pat Salmon from National Citizenship Scheme (NCS) discussed the Government led, innovative skills development scheme and how students can get involved. A series of short videos from previous NCS volunteers helped to highlight the difference a proactive community can make and the lasting difference this can have in an area.

Christine Eustace, Director of Employability and Community Engagement at the College said, ‘What a fantastic sight - to see nearly 60 young leaders enthusiastically talking to each other and sharing their knowledge and ideas on community engagement. At the end of the event delegates were tasked to create a community engagement action plan to take back to their schools and colleges and implement. We are really looking forward to seeing how this develops in the not too distant future.’