Orienteering

Orienteering

What is it? 

Orienteering is a term used to cover sports that use maps and a compass to help the participant navigate what is usually unfamiliar terrain. People usually use the word to refer to orienteering on foot, but it can apply to a much wider range of pastimes including travelling by canoes, bikes, cars and skis; however, foot orienteering is the most popular version to try out!

What does it involve?

The basics of orienteering involve successfully reading a map and compass to reach checkpoints marked on the map in a certain order to check them off a list and complete the course. Electronic navigational devices are not allowed while orienteering, and there are many complex variants on style and rules involving teamwork, relay and time trials - but the basics remain the same throughout. 

Why do it and what are the benefits?

This activity can be a great way of connecting students with nature in an increasingly technological world, and will satisfy any budding explorers in the group. It's also a great team building exercise as everybody works together to navigate their way through an unfamiliar environment to reach the goal. 

What equipment do we need?

If going orienteering with an established company, they should provide all the equipment you should need, but make sure to check beforehand. You should make sure all your students are dressed appropriately for whatever the current weather is - check the forecasts and ask the venue for advice!

Who is it suitable for?

There are no real age limits on orienteering, but you may find it hard to engage younger children in the activity as it requires attention to detail and a fair amount of patience; but exploring the outdoors may hold an appeal for some students!

Costs?

The varying nature of the outdoors and the complexity of the course will change the costs of orienteering from place to place.

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)

Participants should hold a reasonable level of interest in the activity or could quickly get bored! 

How do we include?

You may find it hard to include students with physical disabilities in orienteering as it often takes place outdoors on uneven terrain, and requires quick travel when competing. However, there are places that have courses set up specifically for those with disabilities which could be a great experience for those concerned - make sure to check what's available in your area!

Doing it abroad?

Orienteering is fairly popular all over the world, but not especially well advertised! Don't wait until arriving to seek out the activity, make sure to do your research beforehand to find a good organisation.

Main website:

http://www.britishorienteering.org.uk is the main website for the competitive sport, but also has some good links concerning school trips!

Venues with this Activity

A long distance path giving a circular tour around the county. Along the way are pretty rural churches, castle ruins and other historic features to discover and explore.

With grounds so large it will take you at least a week to explore them! There is a massive choice of holidays and accommodation, as well as an indoor pool and fantastic sports hall. If you want non-stop action and to make loads of new friends, then this is the place to come.

We deliver tailor-made programmes to Early Years, Key Stage 1 and 2 in our pond, meadow and woodland habitats. The Haven Plotland Museum provides pupils with a unique insight into home life in the past and during World War 2.

EYFS: 

Exploring Senses, Pond Power, Go on a Bug Hunt, Teddy Bears Picnic, Natural Art

Key Stage 1:

Based in the beautiful Peak District, in the north west of England, we specialise in abseiling, archery, bushcraft, canoeing, caving, climbing, kayaking, mountaineering, orienteering, expedition and camp-craft. We have a true passion for what we do and we are here to ensure you have an awesome time with like minded individuals and groups.

Staying fit and healthy does not have to be boring. Forget jogging in the park or swimming at your local pool, it is time to try something different to get you out of the house and getting some exercise. High rope courses may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about ways to get some exercise, but it could be just the activity you are looking for.

Hatt Adventures provides a range of courses, experiences, and adventure challenges in a number of outdoor activities including; rock climbing, abseiling, kayaking, navigation, mountaineering, survival, and wilderness first aid courses. 
 

An enormous green space with woodland children's play area, a selection of way marked nature trails with panoramic views, hidden sculptures and 1,200 rare and exotic trees in the Arboretum! Plus park cafe, picnic spots and BBQs.

For all your The Duke of Edinburgh's Award needs in Warwickshire in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding villages come and see us at Rezilient Limited.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award:-

         - to develop skills for work and life,

         - fulfil your potential,

         - and have a brighter future.

On the quiet banks of the River Wye and offers tennis courts and a putting green, a rounders pitch and a charming foot bridge over to the historic Castle Green and Castle Pool.

Beaumanor Hall is a Victorian country house located in Woodhouse, Leicestershire. Set in 34 acres of idyllic countryside, Beaumanor has been run by Leicestershire County Council since the 1970s and offers a whole range of facilities.

The 1000-acres of Park and Forest at Moors Valley have something for everyone.

Outdoor Activity site offering wide range of childrens adventurous activities. Junior Quad Bike Treks through 175 acre woodland, Paintball (aged 8+), High Rope Tree Trekking, Super Swing, Climbing, Target Shooting, Low Rope Challenge Course, Raft Building. Holiday Activity Days, Children's Birthday parties.

A 210 hectare nature reserve with a diverse mosaic of habitats including marshes, ponds, pools, woods and grasslands. Find the Kingfisher Tearooms nestled in the middle of the reserve serving delicious homemade food. Lots of accessible paths and hides to view the brilliant wildlife. Take a session out with the education team to find out more!

The brand new Belfairs Woodland Centre offers your school the perfect base to discover the natural world. With guidance from our skilled education team, children will experience hands-on learning in both an exciting and safe environment.

EYFS: 

Exploring Senses, Pond Power, Go on a Bug Hunt, Teddy Bears Picnic, Natural Art

Our fantastic location and team of dedicated staff enable us to offer a wide variety of activities for people of all ages to enjoy. Whether you are looking to host an action packed party or simply spend some time with adventurous like-minded individuals.

Our primary focus is to offer a wide range of opportunities in the outdoors to young people and adults (primarily for the 13 to 19 year olds but some are good for as young as 8) across the area through a series of development courses and through our club membership.

Bryn-y-Mor is a small outdoor company which specialises in offering tailored made activity packages for groups. We are experienced at working with both children and adults and understand the needs of both. Educate, team development or just have fun, all in a suitably challenging outdoor environment.

The Centre caters for a wide variety of people from all ages and educational abilities, with the emphasis being on practical learning and appropriate theory lessons integrated into our courses. Activities available include dinghy sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking, powerboating, rock climbing, abseiling, hill walking, gorge scrambling, orienteering, camping, navigation, multi-activity

Discover the true potential of your team on a programme that strikes the perfect balance between adventurous challenge and inspirational learning opportunity.

Stubbers have been serving the schools and groups of Essex, London and Hertfordshire for over 20 years. Offering a range of outdoor activities to students of all ages.

Close to Torquay and within easy reach of the M5, Barton Hall offers accommodation in the main house and in en suite chalets. The impressive facilities include an indoor activity zone, heated outdoor swimming pool, lake, classrooms and ICT suites.

Longrigg is an educational study and adventure centre in Cumbria. Our aim is to provide rewarding outdoor experiences for young people and adults.

We offer a wide range of outdoor activities including Duke of Edinburgh and Mountain Training Leadership courses.

Your programme might include a variety of the following :

Adventure Plus (A+) has worked with over 50,000 young people and adults through outdoor adventures since 1990, including some of the most vulnerable in our society. An interdenominational Christian Charity (Reg no 1081059) A+ is s

Learning at our outdoor education centre makes Mill on the Brue a perfect environment to inspire people. With over 40 activities to choose on our 25 acre estate, we can tailor-make your programme to suit the needs and requirements of your group.

4th Dimension was established in 1987 by Chris Taylor, a graduate teacher of Physical and Outdoor Education after 12 years in teaching, the last 3 of which were as Head of Department at a large 11-18 split site, comprehensive school.

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