OCSW’s Turing & Your Future - Iceland Adventure!

On Course South West’s new Turing Scheme provides transformative study and work placements abroad for its students. The scheme’s first trip abroad was to Iceland this December with a group of learners from our Your Future programme. The Turing scheme has enabled 8 learners from the 'Your Future' programme to travel to Iceland, providing opportunities for those that may have never travelled abroad previously; on return a learner noted “it has been great to have the opportunity to do the things that my family could never afford to experience” with another noting that the trip "was life-changing."

The trip was jam-packed where the staff and learners experienced breath-taking views along the Golden Circle, as well as encountering Flyover Iceland and the spectacular Lava show - these particular visits connected to the learners completing an environmental awareness unit, as part of their certificate in personal and social development.  Iceland provided a perfect setting to consider natural wonders like geysers, volcanoes and waterfalls as well as learning about geothermal energy whilst basking in the secret lagoon! 

“I enjoyed working towards my independence and having a giggle with friends” - these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities enabled learners to boost their confidence and collaborate with others; “It was fun, and I learnt a lot about myself even though it had its challenges. It has helped towards shaping me into the person I want to be.” They embraced Icelandic cultures, especially trying different foods such as reindeer burgers, seafood soup in a bread bowl and Icelandic Skyr, accompanied with delicious pastries. 

Lead Project Tutor, Lauren Parker-Smith said “I have witnessed so much personal growth and development. Not just from the week away but from the beginning of our journey with these learners. It’s truly heartwarming and a privilege to be a part of. The journey doesn’t end here.”

Interested in our next Turing trip? Click here to find out more!