Our wonderful Regent College volunteers continue to make us proud. Alongside their regular work at the Wilderness Retreat, several learners have now achieved success through the Duke of Edinburgh Awards…
If you’ve read our NCG Community Champions blog, you’ll already know about the amazing work of Leah Lockley, Andy Hall, and Karen Barber from Regent College – and the fantastic learners they support.
We’re now thrilled to share more fantastic news. Several of these learners have gone on to achieve incredible personal success through the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Awards while continuing their work with Walk Talk Action.
Between September 2024 and July 2025, three Regent College learners were assessed for the Bronze Award’s volunteering section. Two successfully achieved the volunteering strand, while one went on to complete their full Bronze Award.
A journey of growth and achievement
Throughout the year, learners carried out a range of volunteering activities at our Wilderness Retreat in Fenton. They helped to maintain the green environment, support events, and record information about local habitats.
Their progress has been inspiring. One learner, who initially struggled with wearing PPE, went on to take pride in maintaining paths, assisting at events, and even building a flat-pack planter for our new beehive area.
Another captured plant photography, managed overgrown areas, and repurposed natural materials for bushcraft. Together, the group kept invasive weeds at bay and helped preserve our beautiful outdoor spaces.
The learner who achieved the full Bronze Award showed exceptional commitment. They took on a mentoring role, kept essential safety files up to date, and developed the confidence to explain and lead tasks independently.
Our amazing Regent College volunteers in action at the Wilderness Retreat — making a real difference and helping it thrive.
A partnership that makes a difference
This success is a true reflection of the guidance and dedication shown by Leah, Andy, and Karen. They continue to go above and beyond in supporting their learners’ development, both personally and professionally. Their encouragement and belief in every learner’s potential have helped make achievements like this possible.
Everyone at Walk Talk Action feels immensely grateful for their continued support and privileged to have them working alongside us.
Watching the learners grow in confidence and skill each year is an absolute joy, and their efforts make a real difference to the upkeep and spirit of our Wilderness Retreat.
A huge well done to all the learners on their Duke of Edinburgh achievements. And heartfelt thanks once again to Leah, Andy, and Karen for the passion, care, and positivity they bring to everything they do.
Do you need our help?
To find out more about how Walk Talk Action can help, you can email Teri at info@walktalkaction.co.uk Or, if you’d like to join one of our sessions, you can complete our application form.
