National Citizen Service (NCS) is a government-backed programme established in 2011 to help build a more cohesive, mobile and engaged society. By bringing together young people from different backgrounds for a unique shared experience, NCS helps them to become better individuals and, in turn, better citizens with a greater sense of purpose, optimism and belonging.
The programme, which lasts from two to four weeks during school holidays, is open to 16 to 17 year olds across England and Northern Ireland. It includes outdoor team-building exercises, a residential for participants to learn ‘life skills’, a community-based social action project, and an end of programme celebration event.
National Citizen Service Trust is a not-for-profit organisation incorporated by Royal Charter and established to shape, support, champion, and lead a thriving National Citizen Service.