17th February 2020
Andrew Bennett is a Trainer Facilitator for Adventure Sports at South Devon College and brings a wealth of experience in the industry that is invaluable to those wanting to pursue a career in this field. Here, Andrew shares these experiences and achievements to inspire the next generation of what can be done with an Adventure Sports qualification.
What is your background?
I have worked in outdoor education for 10 years. I started here at South Devon College as a student! After college, I went to live in Scotland and worked at an outdoor centre called Active Outdoor Pursuits. I have gradually made my way back home stopping to work in Yorkshire and then the Lake District. Whilst there, I studied a degree and worked for The Outward-Bound Trust delivering big expeditions and personal development to young people. 10 years later and it’s great to be back in the bay teaching on the course that started my career. I love to get outside in all the elements and sharing adventurous experiences with other people.
What are your proudest achievements and favourite parts of your job?
My favourite part of the job is taking learners out on practical activities. We go to some beautiful locations in our local area where students may work in the future. Some of my proudest achievements within the job have been to support the delivery of our bigger expeditions such as kayaking in the Alps, canoeing in the Ardèche, mountaineering the Lakes or supporting our Level 3 students to create their own adventurous expeditions and then watching them perform together in some remote areas around the UK.
How have you found it teaching at South Devon College?
We are a very close team in the Adventure Sports. That happens when you spend time together in adventurous environments for extended periods of time. We love what we do and know the exciting prospects for our students. We have some great kit which allows us to explore the natural environment in ways that some people may never do.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I’ve got my eye on a masters and helping to develop our new Level 3 outdoor instructor apprenticeship programme which is open to employers all around the UK. I don’t think I need to mention the constant pursuit to improve my outdoor skills.
Many people experience success like Andy has in this industry and you can too. If you’re interested in studying Adventure Sports, there are a range of options including degree level studies at University Centre South Devon. To find out more, come along to the next Open Event on Tuesday 24th March 2020 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. You can also get in touch by emailing [email protected] or calling 08000 380 123.