Excellence as Leaders (Year 9)

The Year 9 Leadership Programme is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge to become confident, responsible and effective leaders within both the school and the wider community.

The carefully structured Year 9 Leadership Programme immerses students in real-world challenges that emphasise essential leadership qualities, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and decision-making. This helps students explore different leadership styles and understand how leaders can approach situations in various ways. Beyond developing practical leadership skills, students have the chance to apply their learning by taking charge of school projects and initiatives. These hands-on experiences build their confidence, promotes collaboration with peers and enables students to make a positive impact in their school community. The programme not only equips students for future leadership roles but also fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration, inspiring them to contribute to the success and wellbeing of their peers and the broader school community.

After completing the initial phase of the programme, students will have the opportunity to specialise and take a leadership qualification. They can choose between:

• Sport Leadership Award
• Duke of Edinburgh Award (Bronze)
• National Citizenship Award
• Mock Trial

Sports Leader Award

The Level 2 Qualification in Community Sports Leadership is a practical, hands-on course designed to train individuals to lead sports activities and coaching sessions within community settings. This qualification focuses on developing leadership skills, enhancing communication, and understanding how to deliver engaging, safe, and inclusive sports sessions. The course covers areas such as planning and leading activities, promoting teamwork, managing groups and understanding the needs of participants. The course involves a mix of theoretical learning and practical assessments, where learners demonstrate their ability to lead sports sessions and work with a variety of groups, including young people, adults, and individuals with disabilities. The qualification is usually run through local sports organisations, schools, or community centres, with tutors providing guidance and support. Upon successful completion, participants are certified to lead sports activities and can pursue further coaching qualifications or employment opportunities in sports development and community engagement.

---

Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award

The Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award is a prestigious programme designed to help young people develop a wide range of skills and qualities that will benefit them throughout their lives. It is available to individuals aged 14 to 24 and consists of three levels:

• Bronze
• Silver
• Gold

Each level requiring a set of activities to be completed over a period. At TLA we offer the bronze award in Year 9, with the view to them completing the Silver or Gold at college or sixth form.

To start the programme, participants first select activities in four key areas:

• volunteering
• physical activity
• skills development
• an expedition

Once registered, participants are guided by an award leader or mentor, who helps them set goals, track progress, and ensure they meet the necessary requirements for each section. The programme is typically run through schools or youth organizations, with participants working at their own pace, either individually or as part of a group. Upon completing all components of their chosen level, participants are awarded the DofE certificate,

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is an internationally recognised programme that challenges young people to push their boundaries, develop essential life skills, and grow in confidence. The course is structured around four key sections: volunteering, physical activity, skills development, and an adventurous journey. Participants are required to commit to each section over a set period, working towards specific goals while gaining new experiences. The volunteering section encourages students to give back to their community, while the physical activity and skills sections allow them to pursue interests or hobbies and improve their fitness. The adventurous journey involves planning and undertaking a challenging expedition, fostering teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Overall, the DofE Award promotes personal development, encourages a sense of responsibility, and provides students with an opportunity to build lasting memories and skills for the future.

---

National Citizenship Award

The National Citizenship Award (NCA) is a youth development programme designed to promote social responsibility, personal growth, and leadership skills through a range of community-focused activities. The programme encourages young people to engage in volunteering, teamwork, and projects that contribute positively to society. To start the NCA, participants typically need to be in their teens or early twenties, and they can join through their school or local community organizations. The course involves completing various challenges, including volunteering in the community, developing skills in areas such as communication or leadership, and participating in outdoor activities or group projects. Throughout the programme, participants are mentored by experienced leaders who guide them in setting goals, developing plans, and reflecting on their progress. The NCA culminates in a certification that recognizes participants' efforts and achievements, enhancing their personal development and providing valuable skills for future career or education opportunities.

---

Mock Trial

The Magistrates Court Mock Trials Award is a programme that allows students to experience and engage with the legal system by participating in mock court trials. It simulates real-life cases in a Magistrates' Court setting, where students take on roles such as defendants, witnesses, prosecutors, and magistrates, to understand the judicial process and develop their critical thinking and public speaking skills. The programme is designed to help students build confidence in a courtroom environment, improve their teamwork abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of law and justice. To start, participants usually register through their school or a local legal institution, and the programme typically involves a mix of workshops, case preparation, and trial performances. Students are guided by teachers and legal professionals, who help them understand legal procedures and build their arguments for the mock trial. The award culminates in a competition where teams present their cases in front of real magistrates or judges within a real crown court.

---