October Gaitherin Participants are welcome to apply to be Shadows at the Easter Gaitherin.  Shadows must be 14 years of age by the 14th February 2026. Shadows aged 16 or over will need to have an appropriate PVG (which the Gaitherin will organise).

A Shadow is a volunteer position and assists the work of either the Youth Workers or the Tutors.  

Shadowing is a very important part of the opportunities offered to young people by the Gaitherin.  Shadows learn valuable knowledge and skills including team work, child protection, youth work, instructing, health and safety.  Hours spent Shadowing can be used for wider Youth Development Schemes and Awards such as the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme.

Potential Shadows take part in a two-day intensive training and selection programme designed to equip them to work successfully at the Gaitherin and to understand the ethics and principles of being part of this highly successful youth work initiative.  There is a charge of £75 for the Shadow Training weekend which covers the cost of training, food and accommodation, details of this will be emailed once your application is successful.

Please complete the Shadow Application form if you would like to attend the Shadow Training Weekend on 14th – 15th February 2026. If you are successful in your application you will be sent an invitation to the weekend and payment details. The closing date for applications is Monday 5th January 2026. Once the weekend training is completed you will then be invited to apply for a shadowing role for the Easter Gaitherin 2026 which will be held from Monday 30th March to Friday 3rd April 2026. We do not know yet where the Gaitherin will be but there will be transport available which you can avail of. If you have any questions please email info@gaitherin.org