Representing all three sections of the College’s CCF, 18 Lower Sixth (Year 12) students undertook two days of adventurous training as part of their BTEC Level 2 in Teamwork and Personal Development in the Community.
Day one saw them travel to Mercer’s Lake in Redhill to be guided through a variety of water-based activities by the Aqua Sports instructors, beginning with a raft building challenge. The resulting launches, sailing and maneuvering allowed them to establish a ‘clambering’ style swan-like grace, with smooth teamwork from the girls’ tidily-built and effectively-powered raft. Contrasting with the dynamic ‘fix-it-on-the-move-and-take-the-odd-swim-on-the-way’ strategy from the boys! While the boys often had more speed, the girls were able to return to shore ‘un-dunked’, with their raft still in one piece. Needless to say, it was a hugely entertaining set of challenges for all involved (and also those observing).
The rest of the day comprised of a three-stand rotation, covering Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP), wind-surfing, and kayaking. Inclement weather did not stand in the way as each group approached all the activities with energy and determination, as well as good humour throughout. A highlight being Daniel’s sheer joy in retrieving himself from the lake each and every one of the many times that he inadvertently toppled in. Thanks goes to Mrs Kennedy for roaming the lake in her kayak in her support of pupils’ success and safety alongside her candid camera skills. Thank you also goes to those members of the group who were certainly not in their comfort zone across these activities, yet plunged in regardless and worked hard to develop their skills in sometimes brand new activity areas.
Day 2 found students at Blue Spider Climbing in Guildford, where instructors took groups through a full day’s training session in bouldering, and roped-climbing; they were taught to tie in and belay each other across a range of ascents, while developing their understanding of climbing strategy and core theory. The groups had a range of prior experience, and it was fantastic to see students supporting each other and sharing their knowledge and development of skills across the groups. As with Tuesday, the resilience and determination to succeed in evidence was hugely impressive, particularly from those members of the group who were stretching beyond their comfort zone in this particular activity. They were all unwaveringly supportive of one another, and the instructors noted how quickly they were able to pick things up and what a great group they were to work with.
Well done to all involved, and particular thanks to Mrs Kennedy and Mr Finn for their help and support on the respective days.
