What are we doing?

The Learning Outside the Classroom manifesto is: “We believe that every young person should experience the world beyond the classroom as an essential part of learning and personal development, whatever their age, ability or circumstances”. This links to our school’s intent for Outdoor Education; nurturing our students by providing enriched experiences and learning opportunities in order for our students to grow and flourish, regardless of their background, gender, age or educational need.

How do we do it?

In KS3 all students have farm and forest school lessons, and certain pathways also access Active Life and Swimming lessons. Active Life provides the foundation on which Duke of Edinburgh can be built upon.

In KS4 and KS5 Navigator and Explorer classes have a choice of vocational options that incorporate outdoor learning e.g. Land based studies, horticulture and motor vehicles.

Our Seekers learners all have access timetabled outdoor learning sessions.

Key Stage 4 students have the opportunity to work towards their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards which can be built upon in Post 16 with a silver award.

Students across the school have access to cross-curricular orienteering that is mapped on our school site so that all lessons can be taken into the outdoors.

Students across the academy will experience residential visits including trips to Standon Bowers, London, The Tall Ship Exhibition, PGL to enhance their experience of the world.

Why do we do it?

Outdoor Education has a huge impact on our learners, from supporting students in achieving their EHCP outcomes and qualifications, to developing them as a person by supporting the learning of key skills that will enable them to flourish in their adulthood. These include increasing confidence, self-esteem and ability to deal with uncertainty; overcoming challenges and learning to take acceptable levels of risk; and developing skills and independence in a widening range of environments.