2nd July 2025
A group of students took on the Brecon Beacons and more in a series of challenges designed to put their skills to the ultimate test.
The Protective Services students, from Barking &
Dagenham College, had an incredible time in Wales. The activities were designed
to link in with the skills they are learning on their college course such as
expedition and land navigation, skills for outdoor activities, teamwork and
leadership and communication.
For the first year students, activities included caving, climbing and abseiling before they faced a challenging two-day expedition in the breathtaking Brecon Beacons. The students took on the challenges with such enthusiasm, and it was a truly inspiring experience that pushed them to the limit both physically and mentally.
For the students in their second year at college, it was water for them! With paddles in hand, they faced their own two-day expedition along the River Wye. The expedition ensured that they built on their skills, developing leadership and teamwork, through the practical, water-based challenges, which they did incredibly well at.
While students who are studying for their level 2 in Protective Services, completed a two-day camp, which was packed with exciting activities including rifle shooting, archery, a high ropes team challenge and kayaking.
Student, Emilia Marszalek, got to enjoy climbing as part of her experience, something which Emilia said was really thrilling and although the challenge looked intimidating and challenging, she was able to use her determination and her team’s motivation to keep going. She commented: “This experience has really pushed me to face my fears, but I'd happily do it again. It's a very satisfying feeling to get back down and see just how high up you've climbed.”
Gwen Edwards, Barking & Dagenham
College’s Interim Sport & Protective Services Curriculum Manager said, "This has been a fantastic week.
Every student showed amazing resilience and enthusiasm, making the most of the
opportunities to grow and develop in a fun, supportive setting. The trip has
taken them out of their comfort zones, built their confidence and given them
some great practical experience of putting the skills they've been learning in
college to the test. This has been an unforgettable experience for all of
the students, with valuable learning that will directly support their future
careers in the Protective Services. We're very proud of them all for what
they achieved over the week."
