Following its huge success last year, more than 600 young people recently took part in a range of free events, activities and workshops in Chippenham as part of the second Teen Takeover programme.

More than 25 youth providers delivered activities across 12 Chippenham venues with the event organised and led by the Local Youth Network (LYN), formed by the Chippenham Area Board. The aim of the event was to showcase the youth provision that is available in the Chippenham area and engage more young people within the local community. The programme was possible due to funding provided by Chippenham Area Board, Persimmon Homes, Wales and West Utilities, and Kiely Bros.

More than 1,200 activity spaces were filled across the weekend. From Parkour to Zumba and hip-hop poetry to climbing – there was something for everyone. As well as sessions for people to get active such as breakdancing, a skate jam and disco swim, there were also events to teach valuable life skills, including how to manage finances and a spoken word workshop.

Young people aged 11 to 19 (up to 25 for people with SEND) were invited to take part in the activities and workshops across the town. Participants were also offered a delicious free nacho lunch from SMASH Youth Project.

Organisations involved across the weekend included The RISE Trust, Riverbank Studios, The Reel Cinema, The Climbing Academy, Chippenham Museum and Rag and Bone Arts CIC.

Cllr Liz Alstrom, co-chair of the Local Youth Network and Wiltshire Council Portfolio Holder for Arts and Culture, said: “I was determined to bring Teen Takeover back to Chippenham, following last year’s huge success.

“Seeing so many young people take part, have fun and be so engaged in all the activities was incredibly inspiring. We hope the variety of taster sessions and workshops will spark the passion of those who took part and that they keep getting involved as this level of participation and interest helps to strengthen and empower our communities.

“My thanks go to all the venues and organisations for their collective commitment in pulling out all the stops to make the weekend as successful as it was. And of course, Teen Takeover wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of Chippenham Area Board, Persimmon Homes, Wales and West Utilities and Kiely Bros, so I thank them for helping to make such a positive difference in Chippenham. The feedback has been so enthusiastic and clearly there’s an appetite for more, so watch this space.”

Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “The success of the Chippenham Teen Takeover just shows what can be achieved when a group of community focused people and organisations work together for the good of the community. We’re proud the area board has played its part in a project that has provided young people with fun opportunities to connect, while giving our local partners the chance to showcase what they do best.”

Four parents of children who got involved, said: “My son LOVED it, and it enabled him to have success with his social interactions in spaces where those supporting were accepting of different needs! His glass was full, which in turn meant my glass was full!”

“Thank you to you and everyone involved with organising the event. My daughter and her friends absolutely loved it, and it was the talk of the week!”

“I thought the programme looked fabulous. What a marvellous array of events with such variety.  Really hoping this is repeated as I think it’s a fantastic effort on Chippenham’s part for the young people of the town.”

“My eldest children absolutely loved the arc climbing and the instructor was really good with them both! My daughter has high anxiety, and my son has autism.  They both did really well and loved it, and the nachos too!”