Stepping Forward at RAF Valley

Our Blue Skies Level 1 students were faced with their first teamwork session of the programme: marching and drill. Cpl Ben Wharton and Sgt Andy Kemp demonstrated how to march, standing at ease, the “Shun” and turning left and right. They made it look easy but it was certainly challenging, especially when you needed to keep in time with everyone else. This is where teamwork came into play, with the students helping each other to get in the right position and encouraging good timing.

Building on what the students learnt in the first session, they then had to work in pairs, with one blindfolded while the other communicated clear instructions to move them around the gym. This was a great session, encouraging clear instructions, plus building trusting relationships between the students. They then had the challenge to get their partner safely through a maze. The students commented on how the blindfold session improved their confidence, communication skills and trust.

“I demonstrated communication by directing Charley through a maze of cones whilst she was blindfolded. I did this by giving clear instructions.” Kayleigh, 13.

The afternoon session was First Aid delivered by nurse Heather Madden and Ben Wharton from the RAF regiment. Heather talked about how to use a defibrillator, whilst Ben discussed basic First Aid skills. All of a sudden, Andy burst in through the door with an horrific arm injury. The students had to think on their feet about how to deal with the situation. They did very well at administering First Aid, but it was discussed afterwards about what else could they have done as a team. Andy burst in again and this time the team were more organised: one phoned the ambulance, one reassured Andy, while the others administered First Aid.

“I was communicating with Andy, making him calm and asking him questions.” Oliver, 13

The students learnt a huge amount in the two First Aid sessions which will help them if they ever encounter a medical situation, as well as the need to take on different roles when working in a team.

“I trusted Lyta to guide me when I had a blindfold on. I was confident when I had to help Andy get better after he “hurt” himself.” Lilli, 13

Thank you to Ben, Andy and Heather for delivering a great day.