No.2 Sector London Wing RAF Air Cadets Adventure Training Expedition – Eryri, Wales (July 27th – August 1st, 2024)
From the 27th of July to the 1st of August 2024, cadets and staff from across No.2 Sector of London Wing RAF Air Cadets embarked on an unforgettable week of Adventure Training Activities in the stunning Eryri (Snowdonia) region of Wales. Originally planned for the Scottish Highlands, logistical challenges required a last-minute relocation, but this did not deter the cadets from their mission to venture into the wilds, step outside their comfort zones, and complete key milestones for their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award.
The expedition kicked off with essential training in navigation and campcraft, setting the foundation for the cadets to safely and efficiently navigate the rugged terrain of the Welsh countryside. The week was centred around their DofE Silver and Gold expeditions, where they had the opportunity to hone vital outdoor survival skills such as route planning, map reading, and teamwork.
The cadets faced various obstacles during their expeditions, not least of which was unseasonably warm weather that tested their physical endurance. Many cadets required extra support from their teams, highlighting the core values of the DofE Award – resilience, self-reliance, and collaborative spirit. The experience underscored the importance of perseverance and mutual support in overcoming challenges, with team members frequently helping one another navigate tough stretches of the journey.
This teamwork and camaraderie were tangible throughout the week and were further emphasized when reflecting on how the cadets supported each other not just in terms of logistics, but also emotionally and mentally. These experiences fostered a strong sense of unity and accomplishment within each team, further developing their interpersonal and leadership skills.
After their DofE expeditions, the cadets took part in an exhilarating coasteering activity along the Irish Sea. This challenge required them to navigate cliff faces and brave the unpredictable waters, forcing participants to step out of their comfort zones and rely on their physical and mental fortitude. The adrenaline rush of coasteering helped build confidence and resilience as cadets pushed themselves to conquer their fears.
The adventure continued on land with an exciting rock climbing session on the steep cliffs of Anglesey. The rock climbing offered a different challenge entirely, requiring cadets to test their physical strength, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. Abseiling down the towering cliffs was an exhilarating experience that not only strengthened their trust in one another but also allowed cadets to push the boundaries of what they thought was possible.
Following the adventure activities, the cadets gathered to reflect on their experiences. Many noted that stepping away from the bustle of urban life allowed them to reconnect with themselves and recharge after the stress of school exams. This opportunity for self-reflection proved to be just as valuable as the physical challenges they faced, as it gave them a chance to process their achievements and set new personal goals.
This week of Adventure Training would not have been possible without the generous support of the Ulysses Trust, RAF Charitable Trust, and Aviation Focus Group. The staff and cadets are immensely grateful for their contributions, which made this life-changing experience accessible to the young participants.
In addition to the core physical and practical skills gained during the activities, cadets developed invaluable leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities. These experiences not only enhanced their outdoor expertise but also contributed significantly to their personal growth, resilience, and ability to face challenges head-on. This trip was a prime example of how Adventure Training can help young people develop the confidence and skills necessary for future success both in and out of the cadet program.
The Ulysses Trust also wish to thank the generosity of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust for supporting this expedition. www.rafct.com
