Last month, a group of 15 Uniformed Protective Services students took a trip to Dartmoor to train for the infamous Ten Tors competition that will take place in May 2026.  

The Ten Tors Challenge brings together approximately 2,400 teenagers in 400 teams of six, each navigating a course of 35, 45, or 55 miles, depending on their age, across Dartmoor. Over two days, teams are required to be completely self-sufficient, carrying all the equipment and supplies necessary to safely complete their route and camp overnight. Along the way, they must reach ten nominated tors or checkpoints, testing not only their physical endurance but also their navigation and survival skills. 

In order to complete such a difficult competition, our students have been training in the harsh weather and across the rugged terrain of Dartmoor to prepare themselves for the upcoming challenge. They were put through physical and mental strains as they navigated round an 8-mile route of bogs, hills and valleys. This training provided our students with the transferrable skills and confidence required to succeed in the upcoming competition. 

This type of experience equips students with the practical skills, and physical and mental resilience to prepare them for careers in the Protective Service industry. It is a great example of how our students develop their leadership and strategy skills through real-world challenges, pushing them beyond their perceived limits and reinforcing the value of teamwork, adaptability, and mental strength. 

Dave Beresford, Protective Services lecturer at Weston College, said, “Events like the Ten Tors Competition is a great opportunity for students to test their mental and physical strength, seeing what they can overcome and achieve when they push themselves and work together. It also provides excellent training for careers in the Armed Forces and Protective Services, teaching them valuable lessons for the future.” 

Good luck to all the students participating in the Ten Tors challenge in May, you will smash it! 

This curriculum competition forms part of the Uniformed Protective Services Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.