Good Morning food4thought
I'm afraid I can't be much help as I know 2 children who have taken part in this-one had a great experience the other not so great!
I'm hoping to sign my son up this year and I'm a bit apprehensive too. However, I think it will be a good experience for him and truth be told I think he needs to do something over the twelve weeks break from school for his sake and for mine
He also has to do a week of work experience which I'm currently trying to arrange (easier said than done) but that's a whole other thread!
I have had to ring the NCS folk twice before and on both occasions they were very helpful so it might be worth giving them a call to see if they can allay any of your concerns?
Anyway, good luck whatever you decide and I'm sorry I can't offer any helpful advice.
2 little boys x