RP student volunteers empower individuals with special needs through inclusive rock climbing

Student volunteers from the SSH and ALC hosted individuals with special needs from Runninghour and their caregivers at RP’s Xperiential Learning Centre on 12 April and 17 May 2025. Runninghour is an inclusive sports co-operative that promotes the integration of persons with special needs through sports.

The volunteers attended a half-day training to learn belay techniques, an essential skill to build trust and keep climbers safe. The volunteer training also included completing an eLearning course to refresh their knowledge of autism spectrum disorder profiles and strategies for engaging individuals with ASD in specific contexts like rock climbing. The course included modules S273 (Climb & Abseil) and S202 (Inclusive Physical Activity). Additionally, alumni were invited to share their learning experiences with the volunteers.

On both days, the participants were accompanied by RP student befrienders who stayed with them through the programme, engaging them from icebreakers to warm-up exercises and belaying them for the height activities under the watchful eyes of RP staff. A total of 20 to 25 students were involved in each session, supporting about 25 to 30 Runninghour participants in this meaningful project.

One parent shared, "This was our first time joining, and we are so glad we came. Really happy to see Austen willing to try rock climbing, even though he was afraid of the height. He also managed to finish the obstacle course with the help of the volunteers."

Student volunteer Athilah from the Diploma in Outdoor & Adventure Learning (now known as Diploma in Outdoor Education) reflected, "Taking part in Runninghour was an incredibly meaningful experience. Volunteering with the buddies, who are persons with special needs, gave me deeper insight into their unique strengths and challenges. It reminded me how important patience, empathy, and clear communication are when engaging persons with special needs. More than just a climbing activity, this was about building trust, ensuring safety, and creating a space where every participant felt supported and encouraged. What stood out to me most was the joy and determination on the faces of the participants and their family caregivers as they overcame the challenges. It was heartening to witness how inclusive sports can empower individuals and foster strong bonds within the community. This experience has not only deepened my understanding of inclusive physical activities but also reaffirmed the importance of making every individual feel seen and valued."

Passionate about creating inclusive experiences through outdoor activities? Learn how the Diploma in Outdoor Education and Service-Learning can equip you to make a meaningful impact in the community.