NCS: Whithaugh Park, Rock UK – A Week of Growth and Success
Our recent NCS (National Citizen Service) week at Whithaugh Park, Rock UK, in the stunning Scottish Borders was a tremendous success! Students embarked on a transformative journey filled with personal growth, teamwork, and plenty of memorable achievements.
Throughout the week, our students courageously faced their fears, whether it was tackling rock climbing to zip lines, taking on intense outdoor activities, or simply adjusting to life away from home. The unfamiliar environment and action-packed itinerary offered countless opportunities to build resilience and self-confidence.
Equally inspiring was the way students connected with one another. Through team-building exercises and group activities, new friendships flourished, and everyone discovered the power of working together toward shared goals. By the end of the week, the camaraderie and support among the group had truly brought them closer.
Feedback from students was positive and they all look forward to doing something similar in the future!
Degree: USW Residentials
Our 2nd and 3rd year students recently attended residentials at the University of South Wales (USW) Sports Park, an experience that added tremendous value to their course. During their stay, students participated in lectures, completed important assessments, and engaged directly with course leaders, enhancing both their academic understanding and their connection to the program.
This residential provided students with a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge through interactive lectures that complemented their coursework. The assessments they completed allowed them to put theory into practice, reinforcing key concepts in a real-world setting. Meeting with course leaders in person also gave students valuable insights into future career pathways and guidance tailored to their academic and professional aspirations.
CPR Training: Learning Life-Saving Skills
A few days ago, our students took part in essential CPR training, where they learned hands-on techniques to save lives using “Little Anne” manikins and training defibrillators. This session was a powerful experience, emphasising the importance of knowing how to respond quickly and effectively in an emergency.
Throughout the training, students practiced chest compressions, proper hand placement, and effective rescue breaths on the “Little Anne” manikins. They were also introduced to training defibrillators, learning how to correctly position pads and follow device instructions. These skills are critical, as they can help restart a person’s heart and increase survival chances during a cardiac arrest.
Beyond the technical aspects, students gained a deep understanding of how their actions can make a life-or-death difference. This training showed them the importance of acting decisively and calmly in emergencies, underscoring that anyone, regardless of age or experience, can become a lifesaving first responder.
By the end of the session, students felt more confident and empowered, understanding that these vital skills could someday save a friend, family member, or even a stranger in need. This training was an invaluable step in their journey to becoming responsible and compassionate members of the Blackpool Community.
Sports Camps during Half term
Over the October half-term break, our students took on valuable roles in delivering sports camps, working as either volunteers or paid casual staff members. This hands-on experience allowed them to lead sports sessions, engage with young participants, and gain firsthand experience in coaching and program delivery. This helped build their confidence, leadership, and adaptability and was an excellent step in their professional development, equipping them with skills they can carry forward to support their future aspirations.
Staff training
This month staff have attended various training courses to enhance knowledge and experience in different areas. Early in the month, staff attended the Blackpool Council SEND Conference which provided an insight into support and adaptations required to meet individual needs.
Staff also continue to access the teaching, learning and assessment platform that equips teaching staff with theories, delivery methods and justifications of the classroom environment and how to support all learners.
Observations have started with teaching staff showcasing high standard teaching, engaging learners and embedding teaching principles throughout. These will continue into November.
