Taunton and Bridgwater College learners support communities while gaining real-world experience.
Uniformed Protective Services students from Taunton College and Bridgwater College have returned from a 14-day trip to South Africa, where they supported local communities and gained valuable real-world experience.
A group of twenty Year 2 students travelled as part of the 2026 UPS South Africa programme. The visit was delivered in partnership with United Through Sport and provided a packed and engaging itinerary.
Supporting local communities
During the trip, students worked closely with local township schools. They delivered coaching and teaching sessions, supported classroom activities, and helped improve school environments.
Students also took part in practical projects. These included painting classrooms and developing garden spaces. As a result, schools now have improved learning environments and new areas to grow food for students.
Each visit was rewarding. Local staff and students welcomed the group and showed great appreciation for their support.
Experiencing South African culture
Alongside their community work, students experienced South African culture first-hand. They visited Addo Elephant Park and took part in cultural and historical township tours.
They also enjoyed a game reserve experience and traditional South African braai evenings. These activities helped students better understand the country, its communities, and its way of life.
Insight into emergency services
The programme also linked closely to their course. Students visited a wholetime fire station, the main police station, an air force museum, and a local medical centre in Port Elizabeth.
These visits gave students a clear insight into how emergency and public services operate in South Africa. They also helped students compare practices and think about their own future careers.
Building confidence and independence
The trip had a strong impact on students. Many developed greater confidence, independence, and communication skills.
Reflecting on the experience, Lecturer and Trip Lead Doug Hayston said:
The trip was both a professional and personal highlight for me. It was great to see students fully throw themselves into everything and embrace South African culture.
Over the two weeks, I saw real growth in their confidence. They stepped out of their comfort zones, got involved in every opportunity, and built strong relationships with each other and the local communities.
It was especially rewarding to see them develop their communication skills, show resilience, and take on new challenges with such a positive attitude. United Through Sport provided a well-organised programme filled with meaningful and memorable experiences.
Doug Hayston
Lecturer & Trip Lead
Leanne, Lead Coordinator, added:
Watching the group connect with the communities and make a real impact was the best part. From painting classrooms to working in gardens, they showed up every day ready to get stuck in.
What may seem like small tasks made a big difference. Some classrooms had not been decorated in over 20 years, and the new garden spaces will now help feed the children.
Seeing the change in the students themselves was just as powerful. Their growth in confidence, independence, and understanding made the experience truly worthwhile
Leanne
Lead Coordinator
The UPS South Africa programme continues to provide students with meaningful, real-world experiences. It supports their development both personally and professionally, while making a positive impact on communities.
To find out more about Uniformed Protective Services courses, visit www.ucscollegegroup.ac.uk.