Three Lakes College students are teaming up with the Cumbria Youth Alliance to make a difference in their local communities and gain qualifications with the Sporting Chance Project.

The Sporting Chance Project was set up to help young people at risk of leaving education early without training or qualifications.

The project requires completion of 20 hours made up of voluntary placements at a range of local sports clubs and gyms.

Ben Jefferson, from the Cumbria Youth Alliance, has been supporting the students throughout their voluntary placements and sports training.

He said: “Thanks to the support of the project, the students who participate are well on their way to achieving successful careers in the sporting world.

“The students have completed various sporting qualifications, which will prove to be instrumental in the progression of their careers.

“As well as achieving their professional sporting qualifications, the students have also developed new skills through the completion of voluntary placements at a range of local sports clubs and gyms.

“These placements have had a hugely positive impact on the community, with students running a number of sports and activity sessions and supporting clubs across the county.”

Sarah Tyrer, 17, of Workington, started her training with Cumbria Youth Alliance in July and is finishing her course this month.

She took a Level 2 gym instruction qualification and completed her voluntary placement at Workington Leisure Centre.

She said: “It was challenging trying to juggle volunteering and training but it was worth it. I would encourage anyone interested in sport to sign up.”

Nicole Stewart, 17, of Distington, who is starting her placement at the end of this month, will be taking fitness sessions and coaching touch rugby.

Nicole added: “I’ve talked to Sarah about her experiences with the Sporting Chance Project and I’m excited to start.”

Phillip Graham, Lakes College workplace co-ordinator for public services and leisure, said: “At the start of the academic year I created a partnership and started working with Ben Jefferson from the Cumbria Youth Alliance.

“As we both shared similar goals, we worked together and managed to get students out on work placement, obtain qualifications and assist with career progression via the Sporting Chance Project.

“This year we aim to carry on working together and helping students progress.”