Newman student Benjamin Wareing has been selected from over 80,000 participants to become one of only 100 NCS National Leaders.

Benjamin, formerly of Ashton High School, who is studying A Levels in Economics, English Combined, Government & Politics and Sociology, joined the National Citizen Service (NCS) in August this year with a view to expanding his horizons and to challenge himself to change for the better.

NCS is a way for 15-17 year olds living in England and Northern Ireland to fast track their future by gaining skills for both work and life in general, those all-important skills that employers are looking for, such as team working, leadership and confidence.

It is made up of four phases, consisting of a stay at an outdoor activity centre, a residential trip where participants will stay in university style accommodation, a social action project within their local community and finally graduation from the project.

During the half term, Ben spent five days on a residential trip in London with 99 other NCS National Leaders, which involved meeting with politicians and big names from the world of business. The group took part in a whole host of activities, talks and workshops including being part of a “Big Debate”.

Benjamin said: “I am so thrilled to have been given this once in a lifetime opportunity to represent the very best of this years’ NCS participants. I am looking forward to representing the North West, specifically Lancashire and definitely Preston!”