When pupils arrive at Condover Hall Activity Centre, they’re met with towering climbing walls, zip wires, and a timetable full of adventure. But the true magic of a JCA residential doesn’t just come from the activities – it comes from the people who deliver them.
We sat down with some of the instructors who make the JCA experience unforgettable. From playful pirates to confidence-building coaches, meet the passionate team bringing life to every corner of Condover Hall.
Carl – “Captain Marvel” and Champion of Confidence
Affectionately nicknamed Captain Marvel by his fellow instructors and the students he inspires, Carl is proud to be the oldest activity instructor on the team. But his energy and warmth are as fresh as day one.
“What I love about this job is getting the best out of each child”
Known for tailoring his approach to each student, he focuses on connection: “It’s about talking to them, not at them.” Whether it’s a nervous child on their first trip away from home or someone with additional needs, Carl’s strength lies in reading the room and responding with kindness, patience, and encouragement.
Carl recalls a poignant story about a young boy with hearing difficulties and medical challenges who arrived shy and withdrawn. “By the end of the week, he was doing activities he never thought possible. That’s why I do this.”
Demari – The Energy Booster
Demari joined JCA last year and has made his mark with his signature motto: “Don’t think, just do.” His background in football coaching and holiday camps means he brings a dynamic energy to each session, and students can’t help but respond.
“I start with high energy and keep it fun but structured. Kids love it when you’re relatable, and sometimes that just means chatting about football or setting up a bit of music while we wait for the next session.”
Demari recalls a student who froze at the top of the climbing tower, tears in their eyes. With encouragement and reassurance, the child completed the descent – and by the end of the week, was beaming with pride. “That’s more than enough for me,” Damari mentions as he lists seeing the children thrive as a highlight of his role at Condover Hall.
Hannah – The Team Player
With over a year at Condover Hall, Hannah is both an Activity Instructor and a key part of the senior team. For her, it’s all about the environment:
“It’s a job where you get to be outside, be active, and build relationships. The team here is like family.”
Hannah values the transformations she witnesses every week. “We had a girl who was terrified of heights. By the end of the week, she was leading the high ropes course. It’s all about encouragement and helping them realise they can do it.”
Always ready to jump into a themed dress-up night, Hannah believes in making the experience fun and memorable. “Sometimes I act silly just to get them laughing – and suddenly, they’re relaxed and ready to try something new.”
Jack – The Mentor and Pirate-in-Residence
At JCA’s Condover Hall Activity Centre, Senior Instructor Jack wears many hats – literally. “I once dressed up as a pirate for an entire day. Even for climbing,” he laughs. But behind the costume is a mentor dedicated to helping students thrive.
“I love watching kids come out of their shell, especially the quiet ones,” Jack says. Whether he’s supporting them through their first bushcraft fire or helping them scale Jacob’s Ladder, Jack’s patient and positive style ensures students feel safe and seen.
“The best moment is when they realise they can do something they were scared of. That confidence stays with them well beyond the trip.”
Kelisha – The Confidence Coach
In her first season with JCA, Kelisha saw the incredible impact of a residential on young learners. “There was a boy who didn’t want to join in – really shy. By the end of the week, he was leading his team on Jacob’s Ladder. His teacher couldn’t believe it.”
Kelisha focuses on creating an inclusive environment where every child feels supported. “It’s not just about the activities – it’s the teamwork, the laughs, and the little wins.” Kelisha credits the supportive JCA community and strong team spirit as part of what makes her role so rewarding.
“Everyone helps each other out. It really feels like we’re in it together.”
Alyssa – The Icebreaker Extraordinaire
For Alyssa, it’s all about connection through creativity. Whether she’s starting a conga line or flipping into a cartwheel, she uses humour and movement to break the ice and build confidence. “Even the quiet ones come out of their shell,” she says.
“You just need to show them it’s okay to be silly, to try something new. Before you know it, they’re dancing with you or climbing walls they thought were too high.”
Alyssa’s gift lies in being the “cool adult” kids trust – someone who makes them feel safe enough to be themselves.
More Than Just Activities
Across the board, our JCA instructors speak passionately about the same things: watching students grow, making lasting memories, and being part of a team that truly cares.
From building resilience on the high ropes to forging friendships around the campfire, a JCA residential isn’t just a trip – it’s a turning point. And it’s JCA instructors, like Carl, Demari, Hannah, Jack, Kelisha, and Alyssa, who help make that transformation possible.
“At JCA, the adventure starts with our people. And we couldn’t be prouder of them.“
-Duncan Kemp, JCA General Manager
Ready to meet our instructors in person? Find out more about residential trips at Condover Hall by contacting our team today.
