A team of 7 teenagers from Adventurous Experiences 'Youth Scholarship - Development and Leadership Program' have just returned from a 3 week long expedition to Vancouver Island, Canada.
Camping every night, using which ever mode of transport which most suits the objectives of the expedition. These included Kayaking around the northern coasts of Vancouver Island and hiking in the Strathcona National Park. Learning to work as a team in a challenging environment where decision making is key.
The team completed 18 months of prior training with Adventurous Experiences, (the Adventure Sports Centre based near St Johns). The training program was opened to all year 12 students from the islands secondary schools in autumn 2013 and funded by Adventurous Experiences.
John Keggin, Office Manager at Adventurous Experiences said
"As our main community project, we fund the entire leadership and development training program, (with students contributing towards their costs for the expedition only). 22 students were accepted onto this intake of the Youth Scholarship Program, with applicants from four of the six secondary schools. 7 students continued their commitment to the development & leadership program through a self-selection process, going onto complete the expedition."
Close encounters and interaction with wildlife form an integral part of the education process, the group were fortunate to encounter Deer, Black Bears, Grey Whale, Humpback Whales, and a particular highlight being a Pod of Orcas rubbing on the gravel beach beside the wild campsite.
Expedition leader and Director of Adventurous Experiences, Keirron Tastagh said;
"Dealing with dynamic and changing conditions is fundamental to a long-term positive attitude. The constant challenge of problem solving whilst dealing with adversity is embraced, and dedication, perseverance and team work pays off. The team effort was exemplary, and it was a real pleasure to lead should a motivated group."
Now back on the island, one of the students, Fergus Veale who has just completed his A-levels at Castle Rushen High School has chosen to continue his development having being offered a place in a full time apprenticeship role at Adventurous Experiences working alongside the professional coaching team.
The next 'Youth Scholarship - Development and Leadership Program' is scheduled to commence an intake of year 12 students in January 2015 with an expedition planned for summer 2016. Keirron & the team from Adventurous Experiences will be visiting the island's secondary schools in the late Autumn term to discuss this exciting opportunity with students.
For more information on the program please visit www.adventurousexperiences.com
Photo, left to right, Mairi Shimmins, Emma Howard, Katia Tastagh, Fergus Veale, Lucy Titley, Tom Anderson. Front (lying down) Sam Chapman.
