Students from Years 10 and 11 taking part in the Achieve Programme recently spent an inspiring day at The Wall, located at Wirksworth Leisure Centre, where they worked with professional instructors from Acclimbatize to experience a range of exciting and challenging rock-climbing activities.
As part of their current units – Personal Development and Teamwork – the group took on both indoor rope climbing and indoor bouldering, each activity designed to develop confidence, communication, and resilience. For many students, this was their first time climbing and the walls proved to be both physically and mentally demanding.
Despite initial nerves, every student pushed themselves beyond their comfort zone. Some tackled heights they hadn’t believed they could reach, while others problem-solved their way through tricky routes. What stood out throughout the day was not just individual bravery but the strength of the group’s teamwork. Encouragement, advice, and support were shared constantly, demonstrating the very skills the Achieve Programme aims to develop.
The session became a real celebration of personal growth. Students showed determination in the face of difficult climbs, perseverance when routes felt impossible and pride when they finally reached the top. Their willingness to embrace challenge and overcome setbacks reflected the core values of The Achieve Programme framework.
By the end of the visit, every student left with a sense of accomplishment – and a few sore muscles, including both accompanying members of staff! More importantly, they returned to school with a deeper understanding of their own strengths, improved communication skills and a renewed confidence in their ability to face challenges head-on.
To conclude the day, the Acclimbatize delivery staff commented on how impressed they were with the boys’ positive attitudes, resilience, and commitment throughout each activity. They shared that it had been a genuine pleasure to work with such a motivated and determined group and they’re already looking forward to welcoming them back next term – when an exciting new challenge awaits… caving is on the menu!
