City of Oxford College and University Centre students and staff took part in The Great Tommy Sleepout this week.
Sixteen Level 3 Year 2 Uniformed Public Services students camped out from 7pm–7am on the City Centre campus college grounds alongside five members of staff from Activate Learning.
The students were fundraising for the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) BRIT Challenge and Activate Learning’s dedicated public fund for mental health, MindGreen.
As part of the sleepout, students organised a physical challenge throughout the event. Splitting into groups of three, on the hour, each hour, they completed 100 press ups, 200 sit ups and 200 burpees.
Rob Brandon, Public Service and Outdoor Professional Teacher at City of Oxford College and University Centre, said: “We chose to participate in this challenge as the cause is very close to both tutors and CEO Gary Headland’s heart. All with previous military backgrounds, they’ve witnessed first-hand the devastating impacts that war can have on individuals and their families.
“We strived to embed this opportunity to students to ensure they continue to spread awareness as they prepare to embark on their own journey into the armed forces. This opportunity could not be passed upon as we prepare for our expedition in Dartmoor in the future.
“The sleepout helped students to understand the vital skills to be out at night but also the dangers that may arise. This opportunity also gave our culinary chefs the opportunity to prepare them for the outdoors by completing a demonstration on how to cook nutritional and healthy foods with limited equipment and resources.
“The experience enabled students to walk away gaining vital personal skills such as determination, resilience, teamwork and physical stamina. All which are essential for their own future career paths. This links in heavily with our own Learning Philosophy at Activate Learning by getting the students outside, learning and importantly being active.”
Gary Headland DL, Chief Executive at Activate Learning, said: “I was delighted to participate in The Great Tommy Sleepout alongside our students and staff.
“By sleeping out under the stars, we weren’t just raising funds; we were raising awareness and standing in solidarity with those facing homelessness and mental health challenges. I was so proud of our caring and resilient learners.”
The students collectively raised £150 for RBLI with the excess funds being donated to MindGreen to better support student and staff wellbeing across Activate Learning.
Learn more about Uniformed Public Services programmes at City of Oxford College and University Centre and MindGreen via the college website.