A GROUP of students from Duchy College put the cold weather to one side and took to the water before the Christmas break.

The adventure sports students took on a paddling expedition, which took them along the River Lynher before an overnight stay at Antony House, which is owned by the National Trust.

The group have been developing their kayaking skills and this trip provided an opportunity for the students to put their experiences into action.

Student, Caitlin Irwin, said: “The expedition was a great chance to practice different techniques and skills in a challenging environment.”

Fellow student, Henry Morris, added: “I really enjoyed the expedition and it was great to try out new outdoor sports. I was able to practice skills outside of my normal comfort zone and the staff were there to support and guide me during the time.”

Outdoor education programme leader for the National Trust, Brian Langley, said: “The Adventure Sports students from Duchy College have visited Antony House on numerous occasions, canoeing and kayaking down the river from Calstock and camping overnight in the grounds. This year, as a thank you for the two overnight camps the tutors and students volunteered to carry out some work in the gardens clearing away a substantial amount of branches, which had previously been cut down. Their work ethic is fantastic.”

Team lead for sport at Duchy College, Darren Evans, said: “Our students on the Adventure Sports courses at Duchy take part in regular expeditions throughout the year and it gives them an excellent chance to put their skills they learn in the classroom into practice.

“The students are also able to use this time to work towards additional national governing body qualifications, with the aim to becoming more employable at the end of their course. We are really proud of that 100% of our students progress into work in the outdoor adventure sector or higher education.”

For more information on the range of sport courses available across The Cornwall College Group visit www.duchy.ac.uk or call 0845 60 50 455.