I completed my Silver and Gold award with the Havant Open Centre. All my leaders Steve, Debs and Dave were fantastic. They were knowledgeable, patient and fun. I completed Gold skills in British Sign Language (BSL), Physical in Hula Hooping, Residential in Cannes learning French and expedition on horseback in the Brecon Beacons. All sections stand out to me but the two that stand out to me the most are my residential in Cannes and my Horse-riding expedition.

In Cannes, I had to speak french permanently around the campus. It was one big exciting adventure because I went alone but I met so many people from all around the world. Not only did I get to learn french but I learnt about the area in Cannes inside and outside of my lessons, became a part of the film festival culture, learnt about so many other cultures and made friends for life from the people I met every day. Just writing this memory empowers me to return some day.

My horse-riding expedition taught me perseverance and resilience. Of course, my horse (Frankie) seemed relentlessly disobedient. He wouldn't stop eating on the journey, leant on me when I picked his hooves out, ran away when I entered the field to lead him in for the morning and wouldn't allow me to put suncream on his nose! However, I made a very strong bond with Frankie which says a lot really about the rider! All these memories make me smile but I also remember the challenges we experienced. Imagine the challenges of a walking expedition but this time, no matter how hungry or tired you are, your horse comes first before you set up camp, cook your dinner on the trangea and relax. You know what, I would do that all again for those amazing views and the amazing memories/friendships I have with random strangers. I will never forget sitting on Pen-Y-Fan eating my lunch (Frankie trying to steal some) laughing with my group after what felt like the longest stretch of riding so far. Priceless!

Photo: riding up of Pen-Y-Fan before lunch!