Climbing to New Heights: What Launceston Sixth Form Students Achieved in Just 18 Hours Will Inspire You

Launceston College Sixth Formers Conquer Welsh Three Peaks Challenge in Record Time

Students from the Sixth Form at Launceston College, part of Athena Learning Trust, have completed the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge in an impressive time of just 18 hours.

The group scaled Snowdon, Cader Idris and Pen Y Fan – three of the highest mountains in Wales – covering nearly 20 miles and more than 6000ft of ascent, all in one day.

Early Start, Epic Day

The challenge began in the early hours of the morning, with students waking at 2:30am before tackling Snowdon via the steep and rugged Pyg Track at 4am. By 6am, they had reached the summit and descended into Llanberis for a quick breakfast of bacon rolls and hot chocolate.

Next up was Cader Idris in Mid Wales. The second climb of the day was a tough one, but students were rewarded with stunning views at the summit.

The final ascent, Pen Y Fan, took place in darkness. Equipped with head torches, the group powered through and reached the final peak at 9pm.

‘A Great Experience with Great People’

Despite the physical and mental challenge, students spoke positively about the experience:

“For me the best part about our Welsh Three Peaks challenge was getting to experience an adventure with some of my closest friends. Being able to explore a completely new, wild and beautiful place which is far far away from home was a great experience and doing so with such great people made it even more special and fun. We were able to keep each other motivated and persevere through how tired we were, as well as having a laugh with one another at the same time.”

“Completing the Welsh 3 peaks challenge was an unforgettable experience, made even more special by the absolutely breathtaking scenery and incredible weather we were blessed with.”

“The hardest part of doing the Welsh three peaks was waking up at 2:30AM on a Saturday, after that we all pushed and supported each other as a team, making the rest of the journey feel like a walk in the park (lasting 18 hours.)”

Pushing Limits, Together

The Welsh Three Peaks Challenge is a demanding test of endurance, requiring stamina, determination, and strong teamwork. Students from Launceston College demonstrated all three throughout the day.

Principal Matthew Thompson said:

“We are incredibly proud of our students for completing the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge. This is a truly remarkable achievement, and it highlights not only their physical endurance but also the strength of character and teamwork they displayed. It was a great experience for all involved, and it’s wonderful to see our students setting such high goals and achieving them together.”

More Than Just Mountains

Students at Launceston College benefit from a wide range of experiences outside the classroom. From Duke of Edinburgh and Ten Tors, to national sporting fixtures and a strong offering of extra-curricular clubs, the college encourages personal development in all areas.

Launceston College is rated Good by Ofsted across all key areas, including Sixth Form provision. Inspectors noted that “All pupils, including those with SEND, follow a broad and ambitious curriculum… Students in the sixth-form study for qualifications that are well matched to their future aspirations.”