Childcare students build vital skills on away day to prepare for placements

Our Level 2 Childcare students went on a team building away day to Woodlands Adventure Park in Walsall to develop essential skills in preparation for beginning work placements.

They explored a range of activities on the day, including archery, axe throwing, zip wire, an assault course, and team games. 

Student Chloe Vallance felt the day helped develop her communication skills, confidence, resilience, and patience. “I enjoyed the day, and confidence is useful on placement because I’m not holding back from activities which I could do with the children; having resilience helps if the children do not like the activity, I feel now I can try again with a new activity and patience helps because every child works at a different speed.”

The staff had a great time getting to know the students. Mel Lord, a Caring and Public Services (FE) lecturer, felt it helped the group bond and work well as a team.

Kerry Shay, another lecturer on the course, said it helped to build relationships between the groups and develop friendships.

Sharon Geary, Curriculum Manager, Caring & Public Services (FE) went on this visit and said “It was just lovely to see the teamwork and confidence with the Level 2 learners. They stretched and challenged themselves to try new things that were out of their comfort zones. They were able to develop resilience, communication and problem solving. I also had the opportunity to get to know the learners better and develop my own on trend skills. The adventure day was just what they needed!”

The team will be planning another group away day early next year to support and develop students’ essential skills.