The new Services for Young People (SfYP) residential courses at Hudnall Park incorporate a mix of challenging outdoor activities and conservation work. Young people aged 16 to 24 from a wide range of different backgrounds took part in the courses during the 2023 school summer and October half term holidays.
Both courses ran for five days and offered a variety of exciting activities led by experienced SfYP staff. Young people were encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, make new friends, and develop essential life skills such as problem solving, decision making and time management.
Outdoor activities ranged from orienteering, low ropes and archery to bushcraft and woodland skills. The young people enjoyed connecting with nature and getting hands-on with wildlife and conservation work, including hazel hedging, butterfly surveys and pond clearing. They also went off-site to explore nearby wild places such as Ivinghoe Beacon by bike and learned about conservation projects at Whipsnade Zoo.
Feedback from the young people was extremely positive and they reported improved confidence, communication and teamwork skills:
“The course was very insightful and enjoyable. The staff gave clear instructions, were approachable, helpful and encouraged me to try new things.”
"One of the most fulfilling and fun courses I have taken part in."
“Initially I was very nervous about completing a five-day residential with people I had never met before, but everyone was very kind and welcoming and the team building activities made me feel very comfortable.”
“There was lots to learn and many opportunities to develop a range of skills.”
"Thank you for such a splendid week, I don't want to go back to normality! I will remember the residential for a long time, it was brilliant.”
Read more feedback from young people here:
Interested in joining one of the courses in 2024?
Get full details and book your place here:
