Suffolk ACF – Adventure Training Snowdon – Easter 2025
Intro
“The view is amazing!”
Cadet L/Cpl Allison Hales, on reaching the summit of Moel Siabod and witnessing an unforgettable cloud inversion.
Over the Easter break, 48 cadets and 10 adult instructors from Suffolk ACF took part in a challenging and rewarding Adventure Training week in Snowdonia National Park. Many experienced their first mountain climb, with 16 cadets earning nationally recognised qualifications in navigation and rock skills. This expedition wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of The Ulysses Trust, whose funding enabled the involvement of expert instructors from Boulder Adventures.
Background
This expedition was designed to provide cadets from Suffolk – a county with no mountains – the opportunity to experience rugged upland terrain, challenge themselves physically and mentally, and build personal resilience and outdoor skills.
Held from Saturday 12th to Thursday 17th April 2025, the week combined mountain walking, kayaking, gorge scrambling, rock climbing, and abseiling with skill development in map reading, navigation, and teamwork. The programme also allowed 16 cadets to complete their NNAS Bronze Navigator and Rock Skills Foundation awards, taught by Jason Till from Berwyn Mountaineering.
Planning and Preparation
Planning began months in advance, with a focus on inclusivity. Thanks to the Ulysses Trust, no cadet was excluded due to cost. Cadets were selected from all companies in Suffolk ACF based on commitment and attitude. Adult instructors worked closely with Boulder Adventures to ensure a safe and varied activity programme.
Days 1–2
Cadets arrived at Capel Curig Camp full of anticipation. After safety briefings and kit checks, the first groups set out on mountain walks led by qualified Mountain Leaders, ascending either Mount Snowdon or Moel Siabod. For many, it was their first time in mountainous terrain, and despite tough conditions, morale was high.
“I didn’t think I could do it.”
Cadet SSgt Taylor after summiting Snowdon
Meanwhile, other cadets rotated through land-based and water-based activities, including their first kayaking, abseiling, raft building and climbing sessions with Boulder Adventures.
Days 3–4
While two groups continued to tackle mountain routes, others took part in navigation training, with cadets learning to orient maps, take compass bearings, and identify ground features. These foundational skills were put to the test in navigational challenges that sparked teamwork and confidence.
“Some cadets who barely spoke on day one were leading navigation legs by day five.”
Capt Stephen Rhind – Mountain Leader
Every cadet also experienced a full day of gorge scrambling at Pont Dolgarrog, which included climbing, traversing waterfalls, and leaping into mountain pools. For many, this was a highlight of the expedition – equal parts exhilarating and character-building.
Days 5–6
By midweek, all groups had rotated through the activity programme, ensuring a balanced and inclusive experience. Some cadets wrapped up their NNAS and Rock Skills courses, consolidating their skills with a practical assessment and navigation walk.
Cadets also reflected on their personal achievements and the challenges they’d overcome, from battling poor weather to pushing through initial fears.
“I’ve never done anything like this before – it’s made me want to do more.”
Cadet LCpl Hunt
Challenges and Highlights
The Welsh weather was true to form – a mix of rain, wind, and sunny spells. But this only added to the sense of accomplishment. Cadets adapted well, showing resilience, enthusiasm, and mutual support.
Key highlights included:
• The moment clouds lifted to reveal stunning summit views
• The camaraderie built during challenging mountain hikes
• Successful qualification of 16 cadets in outdoor skills
• First-time abseilers overcoming their fear of heights and making down the rock face
Reflections
The expedition succeeded in meeting its aims: cadets developed navigation and outdoor skills, gained confidence, and experienced the raw beauty of one of the UK’s most iconic landscapes. The week also gave cadets the chance to test their limits, work as a team, and grow as individuals.
“This week was about pushing boundaries. It was amazing to watch cadets grow each day.”
Jason Till – Instructor
Conclusion
For many Suffolk cadets, this was their first visit to a UK National Park, their first climb, and even their first time away from home. The Ulysses Trust played a pivotal role in making this life-changing week happen, ensuring cost wasn’t a barrier to participation.
We are deeply grateful to the Trust and our supporting partners. The impact of this expedition will last far beyond the week itself.
Author: Maj Dale Masson – County Training Officer
Unit: Suffolk Army Cadet Force
Dates: 12–17 April 2025
Location: Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Supported by: The Ulysses Trust
