Building the Workforce of Tomorrow on Dartmoor

In the landscape of British outdoor endurance, many events claim to test the limits of the human spirit.

Yet, Ten Tors stands alone. Its reputation as one of the most character-building experiences available to young people in the UK is well-earned, rooted in its massive scale, high ambition, and unwavering focus on the next generation.

Over the weekend of 9-10 May, Wessex RFCA hosted a group of local employers from across the South West at this iconic event on Dartmoor. It provided a unique window into the power of the cadet movement, allowing businesses to see first hand how the discipline and leadership cultivated in these young people translate directly into top-tier professional skills for the civilian workplace.

A Challenge Like No Other

Based at Okehampton Camp and organised by the Army’s Headquarters South West, with vital support from the Royal Navy, RAF, and emergency services, Ten Tors is a legendary rite of passage.

Held annually on Dartmoor during the weekend following the May public holiday, the event is firmly established in the collective consciousness of the region.

The challenge serves as a masterclass in resilience, planning, and teamwork. The terrain is famously unforgiving and the weather notoriously unpredictable, but that is precisely what makes the experience so valuable. For the thousands of teenagers who descend on the moors, including Sea, Army, and Air Cadets, as well as those from the Combined Cadet Corps, the goal is to discover who they are when things get difficult.

As the event’s founder once remarked: “If there is anything more important than the will to succeed, it is that the will shall not falter.”

Three Ways to Conquer Dartmoor

Success on Ten Tors is not born on the weekend of the event; it is forged through months of preparation and commitment. To ensure the experience is accessible to a wide range of young people, the event offers three distinct categories:

The Ten Tors Challenge: The flagship category attempted by 2,400 teenagers in 400 teams of six. Depending on their age, teams navigate brutal 35, 45, or 55-mile routes over the northern half of Dartmoor. They must visit ten nominated tors in under two days with no mobile phones, remaining entirely self-sufficient by carrying everything they need to eat, navigate, and camp out overnight safely.

The Jubilee Challenge: Operating closer to the heart of Okehampton Camp, this category is designed for young people aged 14 to 21 with a range of challenging conditions. Several routes are specifically suited to their abilities, ensuring the spirit of the moors is open to all.

The Dartmoor Granite Challenge: Formerly known as Jubilee Challenge Plus, this category is aimed at young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (such as SEMH, ASD, or SpLD). It provides an appropriately arduous 18km+ route across difficult terrain, including an overnight camp, for those capable of a rugged, independent experience.

A Life-Changing Legacy for Business and Youth

Behind every successful cadet team is an army of dedicated Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) and Reservists who sacrifice their time to train, guide, and mentor these future leaders. From leadership to sheer mental fortitude, the participants developed the exact traits that modern businesses need, proving that investing in defence and youth volunteer communities is a smart talent strategy rather than just corporate social responsibility.

One visiting employer noted that it was really insightful to learn more about the cadets and the tour. They added that seeing the level of collaboration and behind-the-scenes effort that goes into it all was both eye-opening and impressive.

Cadets and students who complete the event come away with a deeper understanding of what they can achieve and a confidence that extends far beyond the moors.

The weekend sparked inspiring conversations, and many employer guests left with a renewed sense of how they can make a tangible difference by supporting our cadet and reservist communities.

Discover more at the Ten Tors official website.