Challenges focus on leadership skills

Twice a year, Rotary District 1220, which includes all Rotary Clubs in Derbyshire and some beyond, organises a youth leadership and team-building weekend at White Hall Activity Centre, in the Goyt Valley.

The Rotary Club of Buxton has sponsored local students to these Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) weekends for many years. RYLA activities help young people understand how important leadership and working in a team are and include caving, canoeing, raft building, climbing and problem-solving.

In May, helped by a significant Derbyshire County Council Community Leadership Fund grant arranged by Cllr Tony Kemp, the club sponsored a record eleven students aged 14 and under 16 from Buxton Community, St Thomas More and Chapel High Schools.

The students tackled RYLA challenges enthusiastically, made many new friends and had a great time. Feedback from them, their parents and teachers was full of praise for the organisation and content of the event. The next RYLA weekend is in November and is for students aged 16 and under 18.

Anyone who would like to help with Rotary Club of Buxton’s other main youth project - practice interviews for students - should call Rtn John Drury on 01298 25185 or email [email protected]. Your involvement need only be one or two evenings per year.