Bicton students’ gruelling charity fundraiser

In a remarkable display of hard work and dedication, the Military and Protective Services (MaPS) Academy at Bicton College, part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), will embark on a 100-mile endurance challenge to raise money for the Royal Marines Charity and the RNLI.

This April, the ‘Baton of Bicton’ will see learners travel 100 miles of the treacherous coastal footpath, from Studland in Dorset back to Bicton College, over two and a half days.

The challenge, led by Bicton’s MaPS students, has already received backing from the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, David Reed MP Candidate, the Mayor of Exmouth, District and County Councillors, Devon and Cornwall Police and the RNLI – who are supporting the MaPS team to plan the logistics of the event and will join the students at various points during the challenge.

Commencing on Tuesday 30^th of April and concluding on Thursday 2^nd of May, the students will push their physical and mental limits to complete at least 40 miles over each of the first 2 days, finishing with 20 miles on the final day.

MaPS student, Alice Cooper, explained how the task was “exciting but equally challenging.”

“There is so much to think about and to organise, while making time to train so that we are ready,” Alice added.

“We are all a little bit nervous but unbelievably motivated and ready to go. This project has brought the academy together and we have developed so many new skills. We are looking forward to this and the memories and experience it will bring.”

Curriculum Area Manager, Scott Lawson, said: “We take great pride in our programmes being career led and ambitious. The project management skills our learners are gaining from this make it a fantastic challenge.”

Scott added: “Our industry has asked for ‘mentally and physically resilient recruits’ and this challenge is packed full of experiences to boost these qualities. We are incredibly proud of their efforts thus far, and continue to celebrate them alongside our industry relations throughout.”

For Senior Study Programme Manager, Dougie Wright, this gruelling task is about “challenging and rewarding students along the journey.”

Dougie continued: “There is no doubt this is going to be challenging in every aspect. But what an amazing experience and journey these learners are on. This challenge will give them a memory for life and something to be so incredibly proud of and talk about moving into their future careers. I have no doubt that all will be a success and I cannot wait to be out there with them making memories.”

The Baton, a symbol of inclusivity, teamwork, resilience and self-determination, will be carried along the way and represents the foundation of the College’s values and standards.

Raising funds for the Royal Marines Charity and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution will give the students a chance to showcase their skills and resilience while contributing to the local community.

To support the learners in their gruelling charity endeavour, visit the Just Giving page.

To find out more about studying at Bicton College, visit the website.