As the students of the UPS First Diploma approach the end of their weeks residential at ACATC Llanbedr, many of the learners have progressed on their own individual development journeys.
For many, on the surface the residential is an opportunity to try new experiences and develop their practical and interpersonal skills in an alternative offsite setting. The opportunity for this form of development is ample and the methods many. The centre is an excellent facility that is extremely well equipped for all aspects of outdoor education. From a Public Services point of view this is excellent and a great asset. That withstanding the residential offers more than just the chance to develop the student’s practical activity skills.
The approach to the residential by us the staff is twofold. Firstly, the obvious adventurous training activities and their chance to stretch and challenge all takers ‘beyond their comfort zone’. Secondly is the direct link to mirror a Public Service routine and practice students in the various aspects of service life. This side of the residential offers the learners opportunity to mix and work alongside each other and offers the chance for them to see the real impact of teamwork, self discipline, organisation and mutual support of their peers in a realistic and relevant setting.
Throughout the week all aspects of the programme have been mapped directly to the units being studied by the students.
Public Service Skills
Using correct terminology in a Public Service setting: This has been practiced throughout the week with students taking the lead on all aspects of the residential from admin duties to activity briefs. Additionally the learners have been responsible for the running of the camp and takeover/handover briefs of duty personell.Students also carried out a night communication and planning exercise which required them to plan a task and deliver a brief utilising all previous public service and interpersonal skills taught.The students have participated in team tasks both in and out of camp and have had the responsibility of organising the running of the day to day tasks required on a residential.
Land Navigation
Learners completed the NNAS Bronze and Silver assessments with 100% pass rate, building on previous theory skills taught in this area.
Physical Preparation
In addition to the Kayaking, Canoeing , Climbing (and jumping on the high ropes course!),Hill Walking, the learners’ have taken part in daily physical training sessions mirroring service life routine.
All students who have attended the residential have not only made significant progress to achieving their course objectives, but have also developed many skills that require them to extend their learning outside of the classroom. This has required the application of alternative assessment and development strategies to help them all achieve their full potential, something I feel they have achieved in droves.
