Six local teenagers have received training in essential life saving skills thanks to the Trainee Instructor Scheme supported by Britannia International, the Isle of Man based savings bank. The six trainees had to undergo a rigorous selection weekend in the snow, which included a range of outdoor activities and problem solving tasks. The weekend, held just before Christmas at the peak of the bad weather, concluded with a formal interview at the Ard Whallin outdoor centre in West Baldwin. The successful trainee instructors for 2011 are Liam Wiltshire, 18; Richard Gault, 18; Johanna Gledhill, 17; Emma Diamond, 17; Naemie Wilson, 22; and Lucy Connors, 18. The Trainee Instructor Scheme was set up by Adventure Education and the Children’s Youth Service to help introduce young people on the Island to the outdoors. Paul Melling, Head of Outdoor Centres said, “It has been extremely successful in providing an opportunity for students to gain invaluable experience and knowledge of the outdoor leisure industry. The training programme also helps to build confidence, self-esteem and essential life skills.” He added, “The six trainees will work alongside experienced outdoor education practitioners to help give other young people from around the Island the opportunity to take part in a wide range of outdoor activities. The Trainee Instructor Scheme wouldn’t be as successful without the great support we have received from Britannia International.” Alison Ennett, one of Britannia International’s community champions, commented, “The Trainee Instructor Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young people to develop new skills that they can later use to inspire others on the Island. It is an extremely rewarding scheme to be involved in and fits perfectly with our community commitment to inspire young people. I’d really like to wish the trainee instructors the best of luck for 2011 and hope the skills they learn will help them with their future plans.” For more information on Adventure Education and how to get involved, visit https://www2.sch.im/groups/iomyouth/wiki/6a75b/Outdoor_Education.html. ENDS