Plymouth College staff trip to the Gower - Day 4

The team decided to split up today with some opting to go for a longer coastal walk from Oxwich to Rhosilli and some having a more relaxing morning and a short walk out to Worms Head from Rhosilli. Both groups met at the cafe in Rhosilli before returning in the Land Rover to base.

Those with a some energy left took off on the bikes again for a late afternoon peddle. A ride full of fun produced some fantastic sunset photo opportunities, interesting navigation and Matt's attempt to peddle through a very soggy gateway. Finishing in the dark we were welcomed back to base by the smell of Keeley's home cooked chilly.

Plymouth College staff trip to the Gower - Day 3

Today the team headed of to Aberiddy on the Pembroke coast for a spot of Coasteering and 'Sit on Top' Kayaking. The two and a half hour drive from the Gower was well worth it as we were blessed with glorious weather, leaving the heavy rains to empty on the Gower for the day. Aberiddy is a stunning Coasteering venue.

After a quick stop for a brew most of the team took the 'sit on top' kayaks out for a paddle to the headland, into the lagoon and finished with a spot of surfing. Lots of smiles showed that a good time was had by all.

After another two and a half hour drive to get back to our accommodation in the Gower we opted to book a table at a local pub for dinner washed down with a couple of well deserved ales.

Plymouth College staff trip to the Gower - Day 2

The plan for day two was to go Climbing in the morning and Power-kiting in the afternoon. We headed off to Little Tor in Oxwich Bay for a mornings climbing on the lovely sea cliff limestone of the Gower peninsular. We made the most of the tide times and all had a great time climbing a range of Vdiff and severe climbs. It was great for me to work with Gwilym Starks (MIA) to draw on his experience and help set up the crag for the session.
Due to the winds dropping significantly in the afternoon we dropped Power-kiting and opted to take the bikes out on a ridge ride.

The section along the ridge was fantastic with stunning views and a few fast descents. Getting back to the van was a little more interesting.

Plymouth College staff trip to the Gower - Day 1

Today we opted for a leisurely start to the week and took a stroll along the Beach to Rhosilly where we found a nice cafe for lunch and a brew. On the return along the beach my colleague Matt Tait (music teacher) decided he fancied a dip in the sea (brrrrrr). All the hardened outdoor instructors remained on the beach.

Later on this afternoon, myself and three others decided we would take the bikes out for a quick blast. We cut the ride short as the weather closed in and within 30 mins everyone was soaked to the skin and in need of a brew.  

Mountain Biking on the Quantocks

Today I have been out working with Exmoor Adventures. We took 24 students plus 4 staff from Caterham School for a spot of mountain biking on the beautiful Quantock Hills. We split them up into 3 groups and went for nice ride along the ridge to Staple Hill and back again. As the students had played rugby in the morning we included plenty of opportunities for games and skill development to break up the ride. We all enjoyed fantastic views across to Exmoor and the Welsh coast although the chilly autumn winds were biting when the sun disappeared behind the clouds.