Students climb their way up the career ladder

Two Perth College UHI students were recognised for their exceptional effort by winning a free space on an inclusive climbing course.

Sam Ashcroft, 19, from Aberdeen and Jess Smart, 19, from Perth, studying on the BA (Hons) Outdoor Education and Learning were awarded the ‘Golden Ticket’ award from the Sport and Fitness department, embarked on a ‘Climbing For All’ programme run by Able2Adventure.

Chris Heaney, Programme Leader explained: “They are both very worthy winners of the Golden Ticket award, which recognises student achievement, attitude, engagement and endeavour.

“Sam's career goal is to work with people with disabilities. He’s been inspired to work with people with disabilities after seeing in his own family the support required to participate in outdoor activities and the positive outcomes that result. Sam has already secured a summer job working at the Calvert Trust in Northumberland to develop his experience and knowledge and the 'Climbing For All' course will equip him with skills to help him work more effectively with a variety of service users.”

“Jess has experience of working with people with additional needs in an equine and mainstream sport setting and during her degree, took the opportunity to work with young people from Bertha Park High School in climbing and paddlesport. She demonstrated a real enthusiasm and ability in terms of her empathy and communication skills, working with the young people as individuals and supporting their various needs. Jess aims to go onto establish a career working with people with more complex needs and the 'Climbing For All' course will undoubtedly aid that journey.”