Public Services and Sport students kick off the year with Bootcamp 2026

Our Public Services and Sport students recently had the fantastic opportunity to take part in their annual Bootcamp residential at Ferny Crofts Scout Activity Centre in the New Forest, enjoying four action-packed days of teamwork and personal development.

Throughout the week, students worked together to compete for the prestigious Max Hilleard Challenge Cup, a trophy named in honour of former Sport student Max Hilleard, who was known for his integrity, teamwork, leadership and positive attitude. The challenge encourages students to embody these same values as they take part in a range of activities designed to test both their physical and mental resilience.

The residential began on Monday with students settling into camp life, pitching tents and taking part in team briefings before gathering around the campfire in the evening. From the following morning, the pace quickly intensified with 6am wake-up calls and daily fitness sessions before a packed programme of activities.

Based at the New Forest centre, students enjoyed a wide range of challenges including high ropes, beach volleyball, orienteering, incident response scenarios and team-building exercises. Each activity provided opportunities to develop communication, problem-solving skills and confidence while working closely with their peers.

A key focus of the week was collaboration. Level 3 Year 1 Sport students were tasked with organising and delivering a sports day for fellow campers, putting their leadership and event management skills into practice. Meanwhile, selected Level 3 Year 2 Public Service students took on the important role of camp chefs, preparing and serving more than 100 meals, three times a day, for the entire camp.

The residential concluded with a challenging obstacle course before students gathered for the final awards presentation. The Level 3 Year 1 Sport group were crowned winners of the Max Hilleard Challenge Cup, recognising their commitment, teamwork and determination throughout the week.

Special awards were also presented to Daniel Breakspear, who was named Overall Best Student on the trip, and Charlie Shayler, who received the award for the greatest distance travelled during the residential.

Blessed with fantastic weather, supported by our incredible staff and driven by a brilliant group of students, Bootcamp 2026 was a fantastic start to the academic year and an opportunity to establish the high standards, respect and teamwork expected across both Public Service and Sport programmes.

Interested in a career in the uniformed services, emergency services, sport or fitness? Discover how our Public Services and Sport courses can help you develop the skills, confidence and experience needed for your future career by exploring our School Leaver courses today.