Richard Quigley MP Launches Isle Of Wight West Summer Skills Bootcamp For Young People

Young people on the Isle of Wight are being invited to take part in a new Summer Skills Bootcamp aimed at building confidence, skills and experience in public service.

Richard Quigley has launched the week-long programme, which will run from 27 to 31 July 2026, and is open to 18 to 25-year-olds living in the Isle of Wight West constituency.

The initiative is designed for those with no prior political interest or experience, with organisers saying the focus is on developing transferable skills, understanding professional working environments, and learning how decisions are made locally.

Participants will spend time with the MP’s constituency office, gaining insight into casework, campaigns and community engagement work, as well as hearing from local business and community leaders.

The bootcamp has been created in part to help address the number of young people on the Island not currently in education, employment or training, with applications welcomed from underrepresented groups, including those with special educational needs or disabilities.

There is no cost to take part, although attendees will need to cover travel and bring their own packed lunch.

Support may be available for those who cannot afford to attend.

Richard Quigley MP said opportunities can be harder to access on the Island due to geography, and the programme is aimed at opening doors for young people.

He said:

“Everyone on the Island knows that opportunities to work and learn can feel even more out of reach for our young people because of our geography.

“I’ve been determined to create opportunities that young people might not otherwise have access to, and I’m really looking forward to meeting this year’s participants.”

Applications are open now and close on 31 May. More information is available via the MP’s website.