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

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

The students 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 said: ‘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 of becoming more employable at the end of their course.

‘We are really proud that 100 per cent of our students progress into work in the outdoor adventure sector or higher education.’