Venue Address
Darley Barn, Poplar Row, Darley Abbey, Derby, DE22 1DU
Why choose Outdoor Education with us?
Our bespoke courses are designed to nurture pupils’ holistic development whilst providing a rich, practical/theory-based curriculum centred on the ‘great outdoors’. The programmes are designed to improve facilitate numerous benefits including teamwork, communication, independent risk-taking, SEMH skills and many more – all of which has the potential to compliment the wider curriculum at the RESPECT collaboration of Schools.
Improved Physical Health:
Our courses encourage physical activity and allows students to access a wide variety of experiences to facilitate this. By participating in Outdoor Education, students can develop positive health-related habits and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.
Social and Emotional Development:
Opportunities for students to develop social skills and meaningful connections with their peers, staff and nature. Through teamwork, communication, and collaboration in outdoor activities, our students learn to work together, problem-solve, and support each other. This helps them develop empathy, teamwork skills and a sense of belonging – boosting their self-esteem and overall emotional well-being.
Environmental Awareness and Stewardship:
Outdoor Education fosters an understanding and appreciation for the natural environment. Students develop a sense of responsibility and become more conscious of the importance of sustainable practices and environmental conservation.
Personal Growth and Resilience:
Safely and respectfully pushing students out of their comfort zones and presenting challenges provide the opportunity to encourage personal growth and development. These experiences help students build self-confidence, develop a ‘growth mind-set’, learn to adapt and persevere in the face of adversity.
By incorporating Outdoor Education into students’ learning experiences, their overall development, academic achievements, lifelong appreciation for nature and the world around them will be greatly enhanced and developed.
Qualifications/Outcomes
- Enrichment opportunities to support wider curriculum needs
- Paddle awards: START, DISCOVER, EXPLORE
- Mountain Bike awards: GEARS levels 1-6, Junior MTB assistant leader 14yrs +
- National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) Bronze or Silver
- Wild passport Level 2
- Bushcraft Competency Award Level 2
- D of E: Bronze and Silver
Venue Address
Darley Barn Outdoor Centre, Poplar Row, Darley Abbey, Derby, DE22 1DU
Post 16 destinations/careers:
Useful resources and links:
Meet the Team
Howard Dodds
Outdoor Education Co-ordinator
Outdoor Education, to me, is not just an experience; it is a journey that ignites a deep appreciation for the world that surrounds us. It acts as a vehicle to transfer essential life skills and spark a fire of curiosity in students to explore, to question and to immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors. It is a transformative platform that fosters resilience, teamwork, and self-discovery. I’m personally passionate about Outdoor Education and I know how experiences can support the wider development of a learner. I believe if we embrace nature, it will support and guide us on our personal journeys.
James Hall
Outdoor Education Teacher
Being a part of the Outdoor Education team, having the platform to instil in others my appreciation and respect for the outdoors, has allowed me the immense opportunity to observe pupils experience a wide variety of benefits and developments that may have otherwise been unattainable. These have included great enjoyment in the outdoors, increased engagement, developed social skills, improved self-regulated behaviour, success stories, increased independence, tolerance and well-being. Knowing that I am a key element in facilitating these personal flourishes, developments and personal growth gives me great pride and satisfaction – something that will continue to live with me forever.
Adi Edwards
Outdoor Education Higher Level Teaching Assistant
I really enjoy supporting young people in the outdoor environment. I’ve seen how it supports their development, and how it makes them feel safe and secure while learning. Through this medium, we teach new skills and help discover creativity, problem solving skills, independence and confidence.
Aaron Parker
Outdoor Education Apprentice
I have always had a passion for the outdoors. Taking part in my Level 3 Outdoor Instructor apprenticeship through Junction 16 is the perfect opportunity for me to be able to develop my personal skills, and support students on their journeys. I really want to make a difference to young people’s educational experiences and I believe the facilitation of our programme can do just that. Teaching and working alongside young people in Outdoor Education has many transitional benefits for their Schooling, and this is something I’m committed to. Some of the best places in the world are only accessible for people with the skills to get there. Enabling others to go to those places is a huge passion of mine
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