LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE FOR TEENAGERS

by | Nov 2, 2025 | Press and publicity | 160 comments

An accomplished presentation from Becca Herod and Abbie Hodgkinson, who in July completed a challenging week of leadership and character-building activities, was warmly received by their audience of Rotary members and their guests.  The two students from Northallerton School and Sixth Form College were sponsored by the Rotary Club of Northallerton, to whom they expressed deep appreciation. 

The girls reported on taking part in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), a week-long residential course based at Hebden Hey Activity Centre near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire.  The course challenges youngsters to solve problems and to lead and work with other members of a team.  Becca and Abbie described their experiences of bonding with other course members, undergoing rigorous physical and mental tests in teams, and developing skills of self-confidence, leadership and teamwork.  

During questions, Abbie said “I was quite shy before the course, but this experience has increased my confidence enormously and prepared me for university and my ambition of becoming a schoolteacher.  We were not allowed to take mobile phones for the week, and we didn’t miss them at all!”  Becca added “I was doubtful that I would go to university, but this week of making new friends and tackling challenges has convinced me to improve myself by working for a university degree. It has changed my outlook, and I would strongly recommend this course.”

Recruitment for the next courses in July and August 2026 will start soon. Candidates must be 16 or 17 at the time of the course.  Contact l.crelling@tiscali.co.uk for more information.

Photo:  Left to right: RYLA mentor Chris Redfearn, Abbie Hodgkinson, Becca Herod and David Ison (Past President of The Rotary Club of Northallerton).

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