Young people from across Isle of Wight West have completed the first Summer Skills Bootcamp organised by Richard Quigley’s office, with participants developing confidence, workplace skills and new connections during a week-long programme.
The bootcamp, aimed at residents aged 18-25, included workshops and discussions focused on building confidence, communication and problem-solving skills, while encouraging participants to explore how young people can play a greater role in local decision-making.
Attendees also developed skills in public speaking, research, critical thinking, presentations and teamwork.
As part of the programme, participants visited HTP Apprenticeship College in Newport to learn about apprenticeship opportunities and take part in a CV-building workshop. They also met representatives from the Isle of Wight Youth Trust and neighbourhood police officers to hear about careers in public service and the support available to young people on the Island.
The week concluded with a visit to County Hall, where the group met Isle of Wight Council Leader Jonathan Bacon before delivering speeches in the Council Chamber to demonstrate the presentation and public speaking skills they had developed.
Richard Quigley, MP for Isle of Wight West, has said:
“The bootcamp has been an amazing experience, and I’m seriously blown away by the talent, determination and enthusiasm shown by everyone who attended.
Article continues below this advertisement “What has impressed me most is the growth in confidence we have seen over the course of the week. Many participants arrived understandably nervous, but by the end of the week they were standing in the Council Chamber speaking with confidence, sharing ideas and demonstrating skills that will serve them well in the future.
“This bootcamp was about opening doors, building transferable skills and helping young people recognise the opportunities that already exist here on the Island. The talent is here. Sometimes all that’s needed is a chance to build confidence and make those connections.”
Several participants also made connections with local organisations and employers during the week, with some already exploring education, training and employment opportunities as a result.
Reflecting on the experience, one participant said:
“Definitely, it’s made me feel a lot more positive; I can actually see a future for myself on the Island now, which is really nice.”
Another added:
“Honestly yes, this week has changed how I think about the future. I’ve become more self-aware about current and growing issues within society, not just the Isle of Wight as a whole but also how I’d like to fix them.”
Following the success of the inaugural bootcamp, Mr Quigley hopes to expand the initiative in future years to help more young Islanders develop confidence, skills and employment opportunities.
