RPL apprentices enjoy induction at Aztec Adventure
On Thursday 4 September, Ricoh UK Products Ltd’s (RPL) apprentices took to the great outdoors, heading to Aztec Adventure in Upton Warren, for a day filled with teambuilding challenges, problem-solving and plenty of laughs – despite the unpredictable British weather.
The event, organised as an induction activity, welcomed four newly recruited apprentices into the programme: Lois Cooksey (Compliance), Ben Mason (Engineering), Ryan Yeung (IT), and Jesse Mooney (Engineering).
They joined their peers – fellow apprentices, for a day designed to strengthen teamwork, communication, and resilience.
Climbing to New Heights
The day kicked off with a crate stack challenge, whereby teams worked together to build a towering stack of crates while keeping one teammate balanced at the top. “Wobbly moments and plenty of teamwork were the order of the morning”, according to Learning & Development Officer, Claire Shepherd.
Next came the ‘Jacob’s Ladder’, a challenge requiring physical strength, agility and encouragement from the ground as participants tried to climb as high as possible. With each rung spaced further apart, the task became trickier the higher they climbed – but the apprentices showed determination throughout.
Putting Their Minds to the Test
The apprentices then took on two initiative tests, racing ‘against the clock’ to complete problem-solving challenges. These activities encouraged strategic thinking, collaboration and a little competitive spirit.
After a well-earned lunch, the team moved on to a light-hearted icebreaker activity, matching names to surprising facts about each other – a fun way for the new apprentices to get to know the wider group.
Making a Splash
The afternoon saw the group take to the water. First up was a canoe race, which tested balance and paddling skills. Any hopes of staying dry were dashed by a sudden British downpour, but spirits remained high as the apprentices powered through.
The day culminated with Raft Building. Split into three groups and equipped with only barrels, logs and ropes, teams had 20 minutes to design, build and test their rafts.
Knot-tying skills and creative ‘engineering’ designs were put to the test, but only one raft stayed afloat long enough to claim victory.
Building Bonds Beyond
Reflecting on the induction day, Claire Shepherd commented: “It was a fantastic opportunity for apprentices – new and existing – to bond outside of the workplace, developing skills in communication, teamwork, creativity and resilience that will support them throughout their journey at RPL.
“Despite the weather, the apprentices embraced every challenge with enthusiasm, showing teamwork and winning spirit that reflect the Ricoh’s values.”
About the Ricoh UK Products Ltd Apprenticeship Programme
Our well-established apprenticeship programme began in 1990 and continues to be a fantastic way of growing our future talent. We seek ambitious candidates who are ready to take ownership of their development, work hard to exceed their potential, and grow with an innovative employer.
An apprenticeship with Ricoh UK Products Ltd offers the opportunity to gain practical, industry experience alongside nationally recognised qualifications relevant to your chosen career path – all whilst earning a wage.
Throughout the programme, apprentices develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of RPL’s processes by working across several key business areas, with the support of dedicated mentors. Alongside this, they partner with specialist learning providers (colleges or universities) to complete their academic qualifications.
We are committed to the continued development of our apprentices, supporting them to achieve the very best from their programme and beyond.
For more information about RPL’s apprenticeship programme, click here.
Want to hear from former apprentices? Where are they now? Find out by clicking here.