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The teenage years can be full of challenges, from managing emotions and friendships to building confidence and figuring out what the future might hold. The CHEXS GROWTH Development Programme gives young people aged 12 to 15 the opportunity to step outside of the classroom, build real-world skills, and discover who they are.
HOW IT WORKS
Over 30 weeks, participants take part in structured, meaningful projects that build self-esteem, resilience and leadership. With the support of our highly qualified team of children and young people workers, young people learn how to set goals, stay focused, and take pride in their achievements.
This programme is ideal for young people who might be:
- Feeling disconnected from school or peers
- Needing help with confidence, emotional regulation, or motivation
- Wanting to build leadership skills and give back to the community
- Looking for a fresh opportunity to grow in a safe, supportive space
Every activity is designed to help young people see what they’re capable of, and to feel good about it.
WHAT YOUR CHILD MIGHT DO
🟢 Aspiration & Introduction Presentation
We begin the journey with a motivational session where each young person is supported to reflect on their current situation, set goals for the year, and learn about the stages ahead. A clear focus is placed on ownership, trust, and ambition, with a strong message that their voice and progress matter.
🟣 Role Model Creative Projects
Young people are given the opportunity to mentor children from local primary schools through joint creative activities, such as building willow sculptures, planting garden features, or designing artwork. These sessions are about being a positive role model, while developing leadership, patience, and collaboration. Supporting younger children allows young people to see their own progress and feel the impact they can have.
🟡 Community Habitat Management
Young people work in local green spaces such as Lee Valley parks, helping to maintain and improve the environment through tasks like planting, path clearing, habitat creation or team landscaping. These sessions build resilience, physical confidence and teamwork, and offer the benefits of calm, reflective time outdoors. We also focus on how giving back to their community can shape a sense of responsibility and pride.
🟣 “My Life” Project
This is a three-day intensive life-skills programme focused on helping young people make safe, informed choices as they move toward adulthood. Topics include relationships, consent, internet safety, managing peer pressure, budgeting, and independent living. The sessions are led by trained staff in a supportive, non-judgemental setting. It’s a practical, empowering experience that many describe as life-changing.
🟤 Activity Day
Toward the end of the programme, we host an outdoor challenge day filled with team-building activities and reflection time. It’s a chance for young people to look back on their progress, push themselves physically and mentally, and take pride in how far they’ve come. This day often builds new confidence and strengthens group bonds.
🟡 CHEXS Awards
Our year ends with a celebratory community event, where young people are recognised for their growth, effort and leadership throughout the programme. It’s a joyful moment for families, schools and the young people themselves, and a powerful reminder of what they’ve achieved.
