Public Services Students from Amersham & Wycombe College tackle Longridge Flooding

Public Service students from Amersham & Wycombe College have been busy helping to clear damage and renovate buildings caused by severe flooding at Longridge Outdoor Activity Centre in Marlow.

Ten students, who are all studying a BTEC Diploma in Public Services have each put in over thirty hours of voluntary work to renovate flood damaged buildings, clear debris and complete general end of season maintenance in preparation for the cold winter months ahead.

The students have utilised skills already learnt during their time at college on projects organised by community based organisations. This voluntary work has also enabled them to acquire additional skills in the completion of their coursework and help towards full time employment or university placement.

Public Service student Joe Sims, who has aspirations of joining the Royal Navy said: ‘It’s been great to help the local community. Longridge is a really busy place and used by so many activity groups and we know what we’ve done will be appreciated. The project has been good for developing teamwork, organisation and also in gaining many other skills we’re going to need in employment.‘

Students under the supervision and guidance of Longridge staff worked tirelessly in the completion of the tasks, adding not only a hard working ethos, but humour and enthusiasm to everything they undertook – and often in cold and wet conditions.

Public Services course leader Rob Offord said: ‘I’m proud of what our students have achieved and we hope the relationship with Longridge will grow and see many more of our students return to assist them in the fantastic work they do within the local community.‘