Suffolk ACF – Adventure Training Snowdonia National Park
October 2025
Introduction
“The view is amazing!”
This was the quote from all the cadets on reaching the summit of our mountains we climbed and realising that Suffolk is quite flat!
Over the October break, 40 cadets and 10 adult instructors from Suffolk ACF took part in a challenging and rewarding Adventure Training week in the Snowdonia National Park. Many experienced their first mountain climb, canoeing on a lake and jumping into pools on the Gorge walking events. 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 which has been going on for 20years allows 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 25th October to Thursday 31st October 2025, the week combined mountain walking, kayaking, gorge scrambling, rock climbing, and abseiling with skill development in map reading, navigation, and teamwork.
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.
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 with a choice of Snowdon, Moel Siabod or Moel Ellio. For many, it was their first time in mountainous terrain, and despite tough conditions, morale was high.
Day 1 Moel Siabod
“I didn’t think I could do it.”
This was mentioned many times by cadets after summiting Moel Siabod
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 2 Snowdon via Rhydd Path
A nice cold but dry day for the ascent of Snowdon with lots of effort being put in by the cadets, some struggled but with the help of their mates and plenty of breaks we were soon at the top having lunch, as usual the café was closed and the mist was in but this didn’t dampen the spirits of the cadets conquering the mountain.
“Some cadets who barely spoke on day one were acting like true Leaders with their encouragement and determination.”
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 – equally exhilarating and character-building.
Days 3
This day was Moel Ellio with a hard start and lovely weather but those false summits were exhausting but all the cadets managed the walk and once at the stone shelter it was a lovely downhill ridge walk with great views over towards Snowdon.
By midweek, all groups had rotated through the activity programme, ensuring a balanced and inclusive experience. 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 Twyford
Challenges and Highlights
The Welsh weather was true to form – a mix of rain, wind, and sunny spells, however this only added to the sense of accomplishment. Cadets adapted well, showing resilience, enthusiasm, and mutual support.
Key highlights included:
• Reaching the top of Snowdon
• The camaraderie built during challenging mountain hikes
• Jumping into the pools on the gorge walking event
• First-time abseilers and climbers overcoming their fear of heights and making a successful ascent and descent on the hill.
Reflections
The expedition succeeded in meeting its aims: cadets developed leadership and outdoor skills, gained confidence, resilience and tenacity 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.
