YOUNG people fed up with being unemployed and undervalued are taking part in an 84-day life-changing course.
Team is a unique project run by the Prince's Trust which aims to give people aged 16 to 25 a second chance in life.
The 100th course to take place in Worcester is currently in full swing and those taking part, who come from all over the county, seem determined to see it through.
Joe Salam, aged 18, of Broms-grove, said: "It means you have something to get up for in the morning.
Jodie Watson, 18 also from Bromsgrove, said she joined because she wanted to keep educated."
"You feel useless sitting around not doing anything, you feel like everything's just falling out of your brain. The Prince's Trust can help me do what I want to do. I just need to keep motivated." More than 70 per cent of the people who take part in a Team go into work, training or education afterwards.
Three weeks into the 12-week long course the students have already spent an action-packed residential week away from home, taking part in activities including abseiling and cooking for themselves.
Team leader Emma Thomp-son said confidence levels among those taking part had soared. "We took 12 students away for the activity week. They all completed it and had a fantastic time.
I've just been looking at the photos they took and it's great to see the huge smiles on their faces.
"It's a bit of a struggle for some of them, especially after such a full-on activity week. A couple haven't come in for week three but we're chasing them.
"It can be hard to get them back into the classroom, but things are really going well."
As well as gaining confidence, the students are picking up practical skills daily, gaining nationally recognised qualifications and each week are improving their chnaces of finding employment. To find out more about Team projects call the Prince's Trust free on 0800 842 842.
Alternatively log on to www.princestrust.org.uk where there are full details.
WHAT TEAM CAN OFFER YOUWhat is a Prince's Trust Team?
Team is a group of 15 people, aged between 16 and 25, who spend 12 weeks working towards a better future.
The students organise community projects and spend an action-packed residential week away from home.
They go on two weeks work experience.
What do students get out of being part of a Team?
Practical skills that help them get jobs New friends and a lot of fun Belief in what they can accomplish A nationally recognised qualification Free career advice Help with CV and job searching Who can join a Team?
UK residents aged 16 to 25 How much does the course cost?
It's free. Students can even keep their Jobseekers Allowance while on the course.
How can you join?
Call 0800 842842 or visit www.princestrust.org.uk
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