Thomas Rotherham College teenagers build skills with adventure challenge

The 48 students from Thomas Rotherham College are taking part in Challenge Yourself, which develops self-confidence, teamwork and problem solving skills.

The scheme, for 16- and 17-year-olds, includes abseiling, climbing, orienteering and weaselling.

Dr Stephan Jungnitz, interim principal of TRC, said: “We want our students to aim high and fulfil their potential. 

“This scheme helps to instil that it is possible for our students to achieve their ambitions if they have the self confidence and resilience to face a challenge and step out of their comfort zone.”

The Challenge Yourself initiative is being led by Thomas Rotherham College and links to a broader campaign to increase the number of South Yorkshire teenagers going on to higher education. 

It is being backed by the regional outreach scheme Higher Education Progression Partnership South Yorkshire Plus (HeppSY+).

Among those taking part is 16-year-old Manny Sidhu (16), who is studying A Levels in English language, media and film studies and aspires to go to university or complete an apprenticeship to become a TV presenter.

“It's great to take part in these activities,” he said.

“They have helped to develop my self-confidence and team building skills. “For example, we’ve learned about trust when we've relied on our climbing partners to belay us safely down from the wall.”

Classmate Abbie Cooper (16) said the course was helping to build confidence, communication and teamwork skills.

She added: “I think this scheme is also beneficial to encouraging more young people from our area who are less likely to go to university to consider applying.”

HeppSY+ is running a long-term campaign to double the number of young people going on to degree level courses and apprenticeships at further education colleges and universities in 45 target electoral wards in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham, Sheffield, North East Derbyshire and North Nottinghamshire.