From Louise Raymond, Exeter 383578, April 16, 2007

A European 'Summer School' is coming to Exeter this year - and places are available for three Devon's youngsters to take part in an exciting opportunity to shape the future for young people across Europe.

The Youth Summer School is an annual event held by the Assembly of European Regions. 

It offers the chance for young people from all over Europe to meet and discuss matters that are vital to the future of the European regions, with the aim of creating concrete project ideas that will be taken up once the Summer School has ended.

The event is held at various locations across Europe and this year is Devon's chance to host the school. 

As part of its commitment to ensuring young people are offered a range of positive experiences that enable them to develop their skills, Devon County Council is sponsoring three places for young people to take part in the school, held from 26-30 August, including travel, accommodation and entry to the Summer School.

This year's theme is the environment and sustainability, and applications are invited from young people with a particular understanding and interest in this area of work.

The AER Youth Summer School 2007 will develop the 'European Youth Ambassador' scheme, which put in place a network of young people throughout the European regions. 

Workshops will be provided in a wide range of areas, including sustainability and health, lobbying, sharing an understanding of sustainability and the environment, actively planning with politicians on how what you have learned will be implemented in Devon.

Some sessions will be joint sessions organised together with the AER adult Summer School participants.

Devon County Council is inviting applications from young people aged from 18-24 years, who live within the Devon County Council area, and who would like to take part in a project involving young people from all over Europe. 

Applicants should have an open mind and are willing to learn, and should be committed, enthusiastic and reliable

Devon County Council's Executive Member for Children and Young People's Services, John Smith, said:  "We are delighted to be hosting this year's European Assembly Summer School here in Exeter - the historical and cultural heart of Devon, and we are also pleased to offer the opportunity to three young people to take part in this exciting and enlightening event.

"This is the chance for a someone to represent Devon at an international gathering of young people on their own doorstep, and may well be the first step on the ladder to pursuing a political career, or for someone with an interest in helping young people influence the Europe of tomorrow."

The closing date for applications is 14 May.  Anyone who would like further information or to apply for the Youth Summer School can contact Rahila Henderson on 01392 383123.

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