What is it?
The outdoors covers everything that isn’t contained with a building! You can do many things outdoors, from extreme sport to simple appreciation of the surroundings. The exact conditions of the outdoors vary hugely all over the planet from snow and ice to hot, arid desert to swamps, mountains, rivers and wildernesses, so the activities available will depend on the climate of the specified area.
What does it involve?
The varying nature of the outdoors means that it can involve almost anything! However, outdoor activities will always include some sort of interaction with the environment, whether it’s learning about nature and wildlife or travelling across challenging terrain.
Why do it and what are the benefits?
The increasingly technological society of today means it’s more important than ever to appreciate the outdoors, so spending time there and participating in activities should be an essential aspect of everybody’s lives and should definitely be included in a student’s education.
What equipment do we need?
You will need very different equipment depending on the activity you are participating in. For example, nature trails or hiking use very little equipment, whereas more complex activities such as abseiling will call for specific equipment – make sure to check ahead of time if you need to provide anything!
Who is it suitable for?
There will be an outdoors activity for people of absolutely any age and interest.
Costs?
Access to the outdoors is completely free, but the use of an activity provider will incur some costs; it will depend on the type of activity you do!
Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Any activity that takes you far away from medical assistance should be carried out with caution and extra safety measures, and younger students should always be supervised carefully when outdoors! Many activities need to be provided by AALS licensed providers.
How do we include?
This will again depend upon the specific activity, so check with the provider to see their specific set up and generally exercise common sense in regards to the activity and the needs of your student group. You must always try to include students unless you can evidence that their participation in any particular activity is dangerous to themselves or others. Often with straightforward reasonable adjustments students with a wide range of issues can take part in activities and this can provide life-enhancing opportunities for them. There are many excellent providers who will be used to including such students in activities so it is often a good idea to contact them to discuss this in advance.
Doing it abroad?
The outdoors varies greatly all over the world as the climate changes, so participating in activities outside will be a great idea wherever you are! Ensure, though, that the safety standards and recovery processes are in place to your satisfaction before you book the activity. You may find it difficult to get your money back from an overseas provider if you turn up and are not happy ot proceed but haven't made clear your requirements in advance.
Main websites:
Check out individual venue websites to see what sort of outdoor activities they have available!
A local nature reserve and country park with a large lake and extensive woodland. A fairly wild sort place with natural features only, but a wonderful environment to explore, and free!
It is also the site of a Roman villa (although unfortunately there are no visible remains).
Boasting stunning scenery, a temperate climate and a sheltered harbour, Canna is the most westerly of the Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides, and also one of the most hospitable. Guided walks are possible by prior arrangement with the property manager.
A delightful garden, typical of the small country estates on the banks of the Clyde purchased by merchants and industrialists in the 18th and 19th centuries. Attractive features include a walled garden and a burn, winding through the wooded glen.
School visits are welcomed by prior arrangement.
Brandon Marsh is the ideal place for your school visit due to its excellent opportunities for learning about nature, wildlife and the environment. We have ponds, bird hides, meadows and woodlands all set within our 200 acre nature reserve. The Education Team can provide your school with a tailor made package for your day where you can cover up to four topics.
Explore 270 acres (110 hectares) of ancient parkland, where a historic herd of fallow deer roams freely and magnificent trees and breathtaking views abound.
An outdoor activity centre and campsite, with a dedicated Indoor Climbing Centre. We have climbing facilities for ages 3 year and upwards, dedicated kids’ clubs and sessions and run regular Bushcraft and adventure activities using our low ropes course and trails.
Our huge site has plenty of woodland and parkland for you to explore and play in.
The Folly Farm Centre is an environmental learning centre in the heart of the Chew Valley. Set in Avon Wildlife Trust's 250-acre nature reserve, it is an inspirational place to pick up new skills, learn and engage with an exciting and diverse programme of courses.
Located near Luton, Milton Keynes and Dunstable, you can visit Center Parcs Woburn Forest to enjoy an active or relaxing stay.
Suspended almost 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago. Today it is a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of thrill-seekers (and birdwatchers!) to the North Coast every year.
Almondell & Calderwood Country Park is tucked out of sight in the valley of the River Almond and stretching for 1.5 miles between Broxburn and East Calder, Almondell & Calderwood Country Park is probably the best kept secret in West Lothian!
We have a children's play area, climbing forest, picnic benches and barbecue areas, a bird hide, woodlands, open space for the children to play and of course plenty of ducks and swans to feed!
It is the perfect location for a fun filled family day out or a relaxing picnic out in the fresh air.
A precious landscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty is so outstanding that it is protected for future generations...
Umberslade Adventure is an outdoor play area set in an 80 acre woodland in the heart of Warwickshire, offering physical and educational activities for all ages.
These include:
420ft Zip line: swoop from the trees if you think you are brave enough. It will get your adrenaline pumping.
Box Hill is the perfect place to discover a family walk and explore the beautiful Surrey Hills. Forming part of the North Downs, Box Hill has breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside. It's home to some fantastic wildlife and plants too, including the Adonis blue butterfly and bee orchid.
Two acres of magnificent garden, set on the side of Kinnoull Hill overlooking Perth. Branklyn holds an impressive collection of rare and unusual plants. Schools are welcome to arrange a visit with the site manager.
Beecraigs Country Park is a great place to visit. It caters for a wide range of leisure and recreational activities within its 370 hectares (913 acres) and can be discovered nestled high in the Bathgate Hills near the historic town of Linlithgow. The Park is open throughout the year and admission is free.
At five miles long, and with a maximum depth of 184 feet, Coniston Water is the third largest of the lakes. It provided an important fish source for the monks of Furness Abbey who owned the lake and much of the surrounding land in the 13th and 14th Centuries.
Rowing is fun and relaxing and a great way to spend a sunny afternoon on the river, pedalos and punts also available. You can hire the boat for an hour or if you want to make a day of it, just stay on the river as long as you like, simply returning the row boat to the boathouse before sunset.
Burton Bradstock is one of the main gateways to the Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path.
The estate is easy to access and offers spectacular cliff-top views along the many varied and picturesque coastal walks.
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo lets you experience the animals and ecosystems of a range of Australian habitats, allowing your class to identify the different requirements of Australian flora and fauna.
Once part of the Longleat estate, the hill was entrusted to us by the 6th Marquess of Bath. Ascend the hill to enjoy extensive views of West Wiltshire and Somerset, or to experience uninterrupted views of the sky from this locally famous UFO hotspot.
One of the best visitor attractions on the Isle of Wight to bring your school or group to.
Our visitor centre in the heart of Shrewsbury is a haven for wildlife in a uniquely accessible location. The walled wildlife garden is particularly suitable for groups of younger children and for older groups the centre makes a perfect base to explore the Reabrook Valley Local Nature Reserve. Toilets, disabled access, shop, refreshments, classroom, coach parking.
Within the South Downs National Park and Heritage Coast. We have indoor facilities in one of the old barns. The Cuckmere valley and Seven Sisters provide a stunning backdrop for fieldwork across a wide range of habitats including coastal, river, and woodland. Activities include team building and forest school sessions.
The centre, with its dedicated classroom, is a great base for exploring the wonderful heath and woodland of Witley and Milford Commons. It has all the facilities you will need, including a fire circle, dipping ponds and den building area. There are toilets and large sinks for washing little hands, and parking for coaches.
ACTIVITIES:
The Bushcraft Company offer residential school trips with a difference, taking students into the wild and giving them real back-to-nature experiences they will never forget.
A 15-year-old boy fell 60ft over the edge of a cliff whilst on a geography school trip, miraculously only suffering minor injuries.