A WIDE range of totally free activity residential experiences will be offered to West Devon teenagers this summer — the result of a highly successful pilot scheme run from Tavistock last summer.
The 'Challenge Project' carried out by Tavistock Community Education Department was the only one of its type in the county.
On a budget of £7,000, 13 school leavers took part in an adventure holiday at Pixie's Halt on Dartmoor.
This year, £242,000 of Government money will be provided to run many more courses throughout the South West. The scheme is being organised by Devon County Council, local education authority and a range of other organisations.
John Collacott, Tavistock's community education tutor, said: 'It was highly successful. Some of the young people last year had never tried outdoor education, and that's very much the tool we use for developing self esteem, broadening their horizons etc.'
Mr Collacott said the courses are aimed at improving key skills of the participants, thereby improving their chances of entering further education, employment or training.
'We will be one of the key players this year because of what we did last year for the county
council.
'This year's programme will be based on the evidence of last year,' said Mr Collacott.
With the extension of the scheme, which will mean 500 places available throughout Devon, he will also be looking to the Okehampton area for young people who wish to become involved.
Graham Stoate, assistant vice principal at Tavistock College, said: 'We are delighted that a scheme that was initiated in our area has been received so well.
Mr Stoate said the holiday scheme was an important element of the inclusion work carried out by the College.