The confidence to take control, to influence others or speak out in public does not come easy to many 15 year olds.

They were qualities Emma O’Connor’s teachers saw in her but none that she recognised herself, but not anymore.

Emma, from Poulton, Cirencester, has just completed a 3 week Outward Bound Trust Classic course at Ullswater in the Lake District.

“I learnt how to deal with difficult circumstances within the team. 

It has helped me to speak up more in groups and sometimes lead”, she said.

Advanced courses like the one Emma completed are run by the Gloucestershire Outward Bound Association in partnership with Gloucestershire Police and the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Martin Surl.

They form part of his programme for helping young people become responsible adults.

“It’s impossible to put a value on the challenges and outdoor learning young people can get through Outward Bound and I’m pleased I have been able to secure its future for the period I am in office”, said Mr. Surl.

“I would recommend it to all young people and their parents."

Links between Gloucestershire Police and the county’s Outward Bound Association go back many years.

Funding from the PCC helped secure the future of the introductory beginners course.

The search is now underway to find the next group of 20 young people to take part. 

PC Nicki Dannatt, who is co-ordinator of the Outward Bound Bursary Scheme - part of the constabulary’s schools unit in the public protection bureau – said:“Outward Bound is great for giving young people more personal responsibility which also increases their confidence.

“We also hope it fosters a positive perception of the police that they will have for the rest of their lives."

Alan Hoar, chairman of the Gloucestershire Outward Bound Association, said: "Examples like these reinforce the value of our partnership with the police and Police and Crime Commissioner.

“With funding becoming ever more difficult, his support has not only secured the immediate future of Outward Bound, but in doing so, has contributed to the personal development of many young people within our community."

The next bursary course will take place at the Outward Bound centre at Aberdovey, Wales, in February 2015.

Details have been circulated to schools, youth groups and other organisations.

The closing date for applications is Saturday, October 25. To find out more and how to apply for a bursary click here  

http://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/Schools/Projects%20&%20Schemes/item4104.html