Twelve Sixth Form College students took part in a four-night residential at the Outward Bound Centre in Aberdovey.

The students, ten of which are members of the College’s Let’s Connect Group, spent four days taking part in exciting and diverse activities, including kayaking, an expedition, mountain climbing, mining and gorge walking.

The residential organiser, the Outward Bound Trust is an educational charity that uses outdoor activities to develop the confidence and valuable education and work skills, of young people from all walks of life.

Recognising the residential as a valuable opportunity for our students, College Counsellor Kirsty Cooper and Health, Wellbeing and Sport Co-ordinator David Hardwick, promoted and organised College student sign-up. About the residential David said ‘The Outward Bound Trust has an outstanding track record of changing the lives of young people. Through team work and adventure, residentials of this type make a huge difference to the confidence and motivation of students. We were sure that taking part would have a lasting positive impact on our students.’

The expedition portion of the residential offered an unrivalled opportunity for students to develop leadership skills, to learn how to navigate in the outdoors, and a chance to experience an awe-inspiring mountain landscape – in the snow!

As an unrivalled opportunity to develop through activity, this experience was valued and embraced by all students involved.

First year student Hayden Murphy described his experience as ‘A life-changing experience. I discovered a love for the outdoors I didn’t know I had, whilst working with a group of people that I respect and admire. The best part was staying overnight in a remote log cabin. We learned how to make a fire and to be self-reliant in the wild. I had a fantastic time and would recommend it to anyone.’