MDX staff and students conquer Three Peaks Challenge

This mammoth trek was part of an Adventure Series designed to help students who may be isolated and struggling

Intrepid and inspiring students and staff, including Professor Shân Wareing, the Vice-Chancellor of Middlesex University, scaled the highest mountains in Britain as part of an adventure series designed to improve the wellbeing of students.

Twenty students and staff embarked on the Three Peaks Challenge, which involves hiking the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales namely Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon.

This trek was part of Middlesex University’s award-winning Outdoor Adventure Series, which is led by the Sports and Recreation service.

“It has been one of the most incredible and transformative experiences of my life. This challenge was not only a test of physical endurance, but also a deep mental journey. 

‘One of the greatest joys was making new friends and hearing so many inspiring stories from different people. This was more than just climbing mountains! It was a journey of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. I am truly thankful to have taken part in something so challenging yet life changing."

Jie Leng Lam, a first year BSc Economics student who took part.

Jie thanked Ben Underwood, Sports Operations Manager, and the Sport and Recreation team for organising such a ‘meaningful activity’ as well Prof Wareing for her ‘strength and perseverance’ and their coach Richie for his ‘patience, expertise, and encouragement’ when teaching hiking techniques.

Designed to break down barriers and form connection through adventure, the adventure series looks to introduce students to a variety of outdoor activities—from paddle boarding and mountain biking to guided hikes and surfing. These adventures help break down barriers and help students form connections and meaningful memories. 

The Sport and Recreation staff work closely with Wellbeing and Counselling teams to offer these experiences to students who may feel isolated or find it difficult to make friends.

Toni Hannan, from the Middlesex University Sport and Recreation Team, said: “The Adventure Series was born out of a genuine need we saw in our students. Through close collaboration with our Wellbeing and Accommodation teams, we identified individuals who were feeling isolated, disconnected, and struggling to engage with traditional aspects of university life. 

“Many of these students didn’t relate to mainstream sports or clubs—often due to mental health challenges, financial constraints, or simply a lack of interest in conventional activities. 

“The Adventure Series offered something different: low-cost, one-off experiences like hiking, surfing, and mountain biking that encouraged connection, exploration, and personal growth. These activities brought students together in small, supportive groups where they could build friendships, regain confidence, and reconnect with the wider university community. 

“Immersed in nature and shared challenges, students formed connections and threw themselves into new opportunities and challenges. The Adventure Series has had a massive impact on those students who have taken part in our activities offering transformative experiences, opportunities for personal growth and connection.”

The grand finale of the Adventure Series was the Three Peaks which gave students the incredible opportunity of seeing some of Britain’s most spectacular landscapes, while scaling the huge mountains of Ben Nevis (4,413ft), Scafell Pike (3,209ft) and Snowdon (3,560ft).

Speaking about her experience, Prof Wareing said: “Growing up, I went hillwalking with my dad, and the Three Peaks Challenge has long been one of my ambitions to complete, so I jumped at this chance to complete it with MDX students and staff. I had a few nervous moments in case I got stuck half way up one of the peaks and had to be airlifted off, when people asked me if I’d been training for it. 

“As a mum with a job, I rarely get to spend as much time outside as is good for me, so it was wonderful to just focus on walking, and chatting to colleagues. We were incredibly lucky with the weather, and the views more than compensated for sore legs. No helicopters required on this occasion and I’m up for the next challenge in the Adventure Series now!”