Military Preparation students recently visited Govilon Activity Centre in South Wales for an action-packed residential.  Day one saw the students and staff battling with the tail end of hurricane Ophelia and so outdoor climbing was replaced with indoor climbing at Llangorse Multi Activity Centre.

Day two began with an early start to prepare for a day canoeing down the River Wye. Students used their developing teamwork and communication skills to build rafts and then paddle along the river. A picnic lunch was enjoyed by all on the banks of the river.

After a roast dinner back at the centre students were tasked with packing for an overnight expedition on the Brecon Beacons. During the walk they faced the challenge of walking with a partner through a pitch dark disused railway tunnel. This was extremely challenging for some students who overcame their fear of the dark during the task. They then slept out under canvas and in a Bothy in the woods, cooking their own breakfast the following morning before travelling to the caves for a morning spent underground at Porth Yr Ogof.

While the group found elements of the residential a challenge, they also enjoyed themselves,

“I thoroughly enjoyed the week, I would love to do it again.  A longer stay would have been awesome.”

“On the night walk I was pushed to go through a pitch black tunnel knowing full well that I was afraid.  I conquered some of my fear of the dark and also when rock climbing I conquered my fear of heights.”

Activity residentials are a key part of all of the College's Military Preparation and Uniformed Public Services courses. To find out more click here or call the Information & Guidance team on 01278 441234.