residential school trips uk

Residential School Trips

Residential education has numerous benefits for school children and young adults alike. Team bonding activities, individual skills development, confidence building, outdoor pursuits, plus the experience of living together 24 hours a day, all combined to ensure each and every student will benefit from their residential stay. Away from home, perhaps for the first time, school residential trips form such an important part of growing up and are the perfect opportunity for a valuable learning experience. Make your school’s annual residential as stress free as possible by getting help with risk assessments, lesson plans, free inspection visits and places for teachers. Just check our site for some great options.

Residential education has numerous benefits for school children and young adults alike. Team bonding activities, individual skills development, confidence building, outdoor pursuits, plus the experience of living together 24 hours a day, all combined to ensure each and every student will benefit from their residential stay. Away from home, perhaps for the first time, school residential trips form such an important part of growing up and are the perfect opportunity for a valuable learning experience. Make your school's annual residential as stress free as possible by getting help with risk assessments, lesson plans, free inspection visits and places for teachers. Just check our site for some great options.

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Adaptable Travel is the UKs most innovative school trips operator offering unique, safe and low-cost school trips and educational tours to destinations across the UK, Europe and worldwide.

Kingswood Grosvenor Hall Activity Centre Kent

Accelerated learning by doing and the ultimate adventure activity experience; a chance to enhance education, put theory into practice and encourage independence, self-awareness and teamwork every day.

First Education and School Travel: All-Inclusive Residential Visits

First Education & School Travel is the UK’s leading school tour operator, providing all-inclusive residential school trip packages, including coach travel, accommodation, full board meals & activity programme from outdoor to educational.

Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre

The Adventure Centre is a stunning watersports & visitor centre located in Crosby Coastal Park, Waterloo. The facilities include water sports, fitness suite, bistro & 4 high-quality fully accessible bedrooms & bunkrooms which sleep up to 48.

Absolute Travel School Tour Operator

Absolute Travel and Tours is one of the leading specialist school and group tour operators in the United Kingdom organising sports tours, adventure holidays, ski trips, music and educational tours for school, college and club groups for all ages.

Preston Montford Outdoor Residential Centre Shrewsbury FSC

Preston Montford Field Study Centre is situated in the heart of Shropshire on the banks of the River Severn with views into Wales. Set in a 12-hectare estate which provides a rich range of habitats, including SSSI for educational groups to experience.

Woodlands Adventure & Outdoor Learning West Midlands

Woodlands Adventure West Midlands is situated in 30 acres of woodland offering both residential and outdoor activity day trip experiences for schools, girl guides, Scouts, youth groups and H.E. Groups can enjoy many varied outdoor team building pursuits.

Aylmerton Outdoor Education Centre Norfolk

Aylmerton Outdoor Education Centre Ltd are based near the National Trust estate of Felbrigg, Norwich with access to miles of open countryside and outstanding coastlines run by teachers that provide high quality outdoor learning experiences for students.

Menadue Residential Centre North Cornwall

Located on the coast of North Cornwall by Tintagel, Menadue is a Residential School Trip Activity Centre where educational groups can take part in a number of adventurous outdoor pursuits in a fantastic coastal countryside setting.

Blencathra Outdoor Residential Centre Keswick Lake District FSC

Blencathra Outdoor Residential Field Study’s Centre is located in the Lake District National Park surrounded by an idyllic 360 panoramic view 300mtrs up a hillside. They can tailor make courses to suit your students key-stage educational needs.

Lost Earth Adventures Yorkshire

We're experienced outdoor education specialists, providing residential and day trip activities to a huge range of intrepid student adventurers, from small to large schools and all types of youth groups.

Big Hat Bushcamp School Bushcraft Courses Surrey

The aim of Big Hat Bushcamp is to give schools the ultimate bushcraft experience & leave all who visit with the knowledge and confidence to safely enjoy the outdoors. the activities are designed to promote personal development, teamwork & leadership.

Crowden Outdoor Education Centre Derbyshire

Located in the Peak District National Park Crowden Outdoor Education Centre provides high quality outdoor education either on a residential or day activity basis. The instructors are all qualified and experienced outdoor practitioners

Hautbois Activity Centre Norfolk

By visiting Hautbois Activity Centre you can put some fun into the National Curriculum - all our activities encourage healthy living and help make exercise more exciting.

Margam Discovery Centre Port Talbot Field Studies Council

FSC Margam Field Studies Discovery Centre is situated within Margam Park, an 850-acre country estate, with easy access to a wide variety of field sites on the Gower ANOB and Afan Forest Park, perfect for school and educational group experiences.

Nettlecombe Court Outdoor residential Centre Williton Somerset Field Studies Council

Nettlecombe Court Field Study Centre is located in a valley at the edge of Exmoor National Park. The country mansion is set within heritage parkland, ancient woodland and is near an SSSI due to its lichen communities, great for Conservation studies.

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welcome to acorn adventure

School and group adventure.

At Acorn Adventure, we specialise in outdoor adventure residential school trips for primary schools, secondary schools and uniform groups.  

As a leading provider of school and group re sidential trips in the UK, Europe, we're passionate about outdoor adventure and all of our school trips have been carefully selected to offer the best location & experience. 

We have over 40 years' of experience in delivering high quality, engaging activity residentials for all ages. Whether you're looking for mountain activities, lake water sports, the ocean or woods, camping, glamping, dorms or hotels, we have a school or group trip to suit all interests and budgets. 

lots of exciting activities!

Excellent choice of school & group trips

why choose acorn adventure for your school trip?

school travel experts

We've been organising and delivering school residential trips in the UK & Europe for over 40 years and love what we do! We've built up an excellent reputation with schools and groups, are fully accredited and are best known for our enthusiasm, professionalism and fantastic activity programmes.  

incredible locations

We've worked hard to find the best locations for outdoor adventure and all of our school & group trips have something special to offer. With lakes, mountains, forests, rivers and beaches, we are well geared up to offer the best outdoor activities from canoeing the Ardeche River to axe throwing in the Wyre Forest.   

great variety of trips

Over the years we've built up a wide range of accommodation options to offer schools and groups choice. You can camp, glamp, stay in dorms or even have exclusive use of your own Guest House. All of our accommodation options retain our `village ethos` which aims to give you a personal experience and your own space.  

land & water

When we say adventure, we mean adventure! We have over 27 activities on land & water for you to enjoy across our centres in the UK & Europe. From beach water sports to forest activities, zip lining to climbing, there's so many exciting activities to experience when you book an Acorn Adventure.   

book with confidence

As a well established, ABTA Bonded travel operator, you can book with us in complete confidence, knowing that your money is fully protected. We also offer Covid-19 travel insurance. We also have the LOtC Quality Badge and are members of the School Travel Forum. Read our Book With Confidence policy here.   

Acorn Adventure - Teacher Feedback

What people say.

“The children have had the most incredible time, that has been filled with the best activities.”

Year 6 teacher 2021

“We have had the best few days experiencing raft building, climbing, canoeing and archery to name just a few activities. The staff were exceptionally helpful and knowledgeable”

Blair-Rose, Facebook

"The instructors and all staff were friendly, encouraging and always on hand. We will be booking again for sure!"

Paul, Facebook Review

New School Residential in the Lake District!

• Nov 20, 2023

2024 Special Offers Now Available

• Nov 13, 2023

New Scout Adventure 2025 - Ardèche, South of France

• 0330 333 6090
• Request quote

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Residential School Trips

Residential school trips are a great way for students to develop confidence and independence. Visiting new locations and staying away from home will help pupils gain skills, knowledge and life experience that will help them excel inside and outside of the classroom!

Here at NST, we're dedicated to providing residential school trips that nurture the academic and personal growth of students. Whether you want to stay in the UK or venture overseas, we have a selection of residential trips to suit your exact needs.

The benefits of residential school trips for students

Residential school trips provide a wealth of benefits for both primary and secondary school students. This includes:

• Building self-confidence and independence - Students get to experience different environments, giving them the opportunity to do things that they otherwise might not have the courage to try.

• Improving academic performance - Taking part in hands-on learning activities gives students the chance to expand their knowledge in alternative ways. This can boost academic performance for those who struggle with classroom learning.

• Physical development - Trips to outdoor adventure centres often involve a lot of physical activity, allowing students to try out new sports and stay active. This aids fitness performance while also encouraging sportsmanship and teamwork.

Types of residential trips for schools

NST provides an array of residential trips suitable for KS1 and KS2 students. If you're considering a UK school trip, we offer a range of packages to trip destinations such as London, York, Edinburgh and the Isle of Wight. You'll be able to teach students about the UK's rich history and cultural landmarks, as well as taking part in exciting activities like ice-skating, bowling and sightseeing!

If you'd rather venture overseas, we have a selection of enriching residential trips to popular destinations throughout Europe. Whether it's visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris or taking in the majestic landscape of Lake Garda, your students will be able to immerse themselves in new environments and mix with the locals. This can help students gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and lifestyles, whilst improving their language skills, critical thinking and problem-solving.

Why book a residential trip with us?

Our residential school trips are designed to educate and inspire through exploration, teamwork and fun! From hands-on learning workshops to unforgettable sightseeing tours, there's never a dull moment when you book a school trip with NST. We've been planning residential trips for school groups across the UK for decades. So, there's no request we can't accommodate for.

You'll have our support from the minute you get in touch, as well as throughout your trip and when you get back home. We'll assign you a dedicated NST contact for the entire experience. Whilst you're away, you'll also have unlimited support from our specialist reps - they'll be your local experts and you can get in touch with them 24/7.

We also provide complimentary inspection visits to your chosen destination, so you can be sure it's the best option for your group or class.

Want to learn more about our residential trips for schools? Just call 0845 293 7970 to talk to one of our team of travel specialists. Or take a look at some of our more popular school trips below.

Check out our residential trips below

Chateau d'ebblinghem.

Château d’Ebblinghem is perfect for school groups being set in a rural location just 8km east of St Omer in northern France, and just 45 minutes from the Channel ports.

The centre has four buildings designed with KS1 & KS2 groups in mind all accommodating student and teacher rooms together alongside dedicated dining and teacher areas. Our very on NST accommodation is a great place for young people to come and engage in team building activities, physical education and outdoor learning. 

Find out more information about Château d’Ebblinghem here

School residential trips to London offer young people a valuable new perspective outside of the classroom and a chance to experience the sights, sounds, hustle and bustle of a major global city. The capital also boasts a regular events programme that no other city can match, at least certainly not in the UK.

Find out more information about our London school trips here

Northern France - The Opal Coast

The Opal Coast is the perfect destination for groups seeking to enhance language skills through a range of educational and cultural visits. The area offers a range of seaside resorts, local markets, water and theme parks – so it’s perfect for French language groups to practise and enhance language skills, discover French culture and find time for a spot of group bonding too!

Find more information on our residential trips to the opal coast here

Residential school trips to York provide an incredible learning experience for children of all ages, particularly KS1 & KS2 school groups who are looking to learn more about one of the most iconic Roman cities in the UK.

Rich in ancient history, there seems to be a remarkable attraction at the end of every winding, cobbled street – from York Minster to The Shambles (famed setting of Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley). 

Find out more information about our residential trips to York here.

Scotland’s historic capital city provides a unique learning experience for primary and secondary students, filled with quality sights, landmarks and outdoor adventure. That means there’s a lot to consider when planning your ideal school trip to Edinburgh. 

Find more information on our residential trips to Edinburgh here

Isle of Wight

A school trip to the Isle of Wight is an exciting outdoor learning experience for primary school groups looking to explore rural life and enjoy activities outside of the classroom, perhaps for the first time.

Whether it’s exploring medieval castles, watching master craftsman blow decorative glassware or even analysing dinosaur fossils, you’ll certainly never be short of interesting things to do on this outdoor adventure.

Find more information on our residential trips to the Isle of Wight here.

Available at 12 PGL centres 

Restart adventure is available at 12 pgl centres .

Suitable for KS3    This new programme is designed to re-connect students with you, each other and with the great outdoors.  

Through our partnership with PGL, the UK's leading outdoor education provider, this exciting new 2-day programme offers fantastic value for money, and is designed to be a fun, uplifting and motivating adventure for your students.

Meet the Experts

Your dedicated Tour Co-ordinator will use their knowledge to create an itinerary that’s tailor-made, perfectly timed and meets your exact school travel needs. They’ll be able to share their first-hand experience, suggest options you might not have considered and give you insight into the feedback other teachers have given us too.

There’s a lot to contend with when travelling abroad, and many teachers find the service of NST’s Representatives invaluable. We can arrange for your representative to meet you on arrival, assist you with hotel check-in, advise on points of interest and public transport and provide your group with 24 hour emergency assistance. With NST, you can be safe in the knowledge that you’ll never be on your own on your school tour.

They’ll also be happy to discuss your programme of visits, offer an insight into your destination and suggest popular evening activities too.

Planning your educational school trip?

If you're planning an educational school trip, our essential guide will take you through each step of the process.

• Choosing your destination
• Gaining approval from your Local Authority and/or your Head
• Promoting your tour in school
• Confirming your booking
• Tailor-make your tour
• Completing your risk assessments (including a sample risk assessment)
• Quick reference timeline
• Pre-tour checklist

Additional support, resources & information:

Tour planning service

With NST, you’ll get your own dedicated, knowledgeable Tour Co-ordinator who’ll work with you from start to finish. You’ll benefit from their unrivalled destination knowledge, and their experience gained from working with many other groups too. They’ll tailor-make your itinerary from scratch and take care of everything for you:

• Pulling together an itinerary that runs smoothly
• Planning the right balance of visits every day with realistic timings
• Pre-arranging and pre-booking your visits, entrance tickets, passes and meals

You’ll receive your final itinerary a full 4-weeks before you travel too.

FREE school trip promotion pack

We’ll support you and provide everything you need to advertise your school trip around school and to parents. Our free school trip promotion pack consists of:

• Parents’ letter & permission slip template for you to complete
• A3 posters to promote your trip around school
• PowerPoint presentation templates which you can tailor to your own needs
• Parents’ leaflets covering how NST manage safety, financial protection and details of our travel insurance
• Online parents’ video which showcases the benefits of taking a school trip

For selected destinations, we’ll provide a trip launch web page using video footage and imagery. This web page is provided by a weblink and can be shared with pupils and parents in many ways.

Risk assessment support including preview visits

Risk assessment plays a vitally important part in the planning and organisation on any school tour. Our  risk assessment guide  aims to help you understand more about your obligations and how you can more effectively manage group safety on your next educational visit and provide you with risk assessments for your trip.

Planning first school trip

Organising your first school trip can appear to be a daunting process.  If you're planning your first school trip, our guide will help to take you through each step of the planning process, answering frequently asked questions and providing tips and support along the way.  Our helpful guide covers the following: 

• Choosing your destination 
• Gaining approval from your Local Authority and/or your Head 
• Promoting your tour in school 
• Completing your risk assessments (including a sample risk assessment) 
• Quick reference timeline 
• Pre-tour checklist 

View our essential guide to a successful school trip here

Get live updates on your group's tour location

Locate My Trip uses GPS technology and is the easy, convenient way for your school to follow your location whilst on tour. Specifically designed to provide reassurance to both parents and teachers, NST will know where your group are 24/7. If your schedule needs to change, we’ll put plans in place to keep your tour on track. 

With Locate My Trip your group can also share photos and videos with the school and parents, via a secure link, to keep them updated on your experience whilst you’re away.

Watch our short Locate My Trip video  here .

Your online school trip organiser - My Tour Manager

Save time and stay on track with your school trip admin with our online orgnaniser - designed to help busy teachers like you.  With My Tour Manager, you'll be able to download FREE resources and access trip paperwork online and in one place. Your personalised checklist details what you need to do and by when, plus you'll receive fortnightly reminders too.  What's more, you can take all your trip documents on the go whilst on your tour with our app, My Tour Manager-On-the-Go.  Find out more and watch out short My Tour Manager video  here

Free classroom resources

We've created a range of free resources and educational posters to brighten up your classroom!  Take a look at our downloadable posters  here

Why choose NST...

Here's why thousands of teachers choose NST each year...

• Unrivalled knowledge

Your  dedicated Tour Co-ordinator  will use their unrivalled local knowledge and expertise to create a tailor-made, curriculum-linked itinerary to meet your group’s exact needs.

• Making it easier for you

With our  online school trip organiser ,  travel app ,  free classroom posters  and trip launch resources to support your in-school promotion.

• Free group leader inspection visits

We offer a  free inspection visit  to your chosen destination to support your risk assessment planning. 

• Value for money

We’re committed to bringing you the best possible value trips to help make every penny count.

• More than 50 years’ experience

With over 50 years’ experience , with NST you can rest assured that  your group is in safe hands.

• Risk assessment guidance

Our  risk assessment guidance  will help you to manage group safety on your next educational trip.

• Peace of mind

Your group’s location can be followed with our trip tracking device -  Locate My Trip  - plus you’ll have  24/7 support from us whilst you’re away. ​

• Offsetting carbon emissions

For every trip taken,  we'll plant a Maya nut tree in Peru  to support reforestation, local communities & biodiversity. Plus,  we'll offset an additional tonne of CO2  to guarantee carbon emission reductions. 

Looking for protection on your next school trip? 

Booking with a school travel company is the best way for you to protect parents’ money and give yourself peace of mind.  

Don’t forget – if your school arranges transport, accommodation and other services directly, you’ll be liable under the Package Travel Regulations – meaning you’ll have all the responsibilities of a travel company, both legal and financial. 

Financial protection from the moment you book

NST are fully bonded:

Managing safety on school trips

For your protection, NST's independently audited Safety Management System covers:

• 24-hour emergency cover
• Audited accommodation & transport
• Excursions & school visit assessment
• Group leader preview visits to assist with risk assessment planning

We're LOtC Council’s Quality Badge assured

The Department for Education advises schools to always look for the LOtC Quality Badge when choosing a school travel provider.

School Trips In The UK

School trips in the UK are proof that you really don’t have to go far to engage and inspire your pupils outside of the classroom. We offer a range of educational trips in the UK to support your curriculum, whether it's art, geography, science, performing arts, or something else. 

We're an experienced school travel company, built and ran by former teachers. We're here to help you get your trip off the ground, with free teacher places, risk assessments, cancellation guarantees, and end-to-end planning and support from the moment you enquire.

Learn more about our destinations below, or get in touch with our team to book your next UK school trip.

Read more Read more

Why should you consider the uk for your next school trip, unrivalled history and culture.

The UK has such a fascinating history and rich culture – those of us who live here often forget how lucky we are in this regard!

Head on an educational school trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon to learn about the Tudors and Elizabethan England, or York to learn more about the history of crime and punishment. Or visit to one of the big cities, such as London, Liverpool and Manchester to find out what life was like on the home front during WW2.

Or, your group could head to Glasgow for some of the UK’s premier art museums. In Cornwall, you could experience artists’ studios and in Bristol enjoy a street art walking tour. And in Manchester, your pupils can find out how industrial cityscapes have influenced local artists.

Unforgettable experiences

Have you been asked to arrange a school trip that will offer your group opportunities to enjoy activities or experiences that wouldn’t be provided in a normal week?

We have residential trips that are perfect for both secondary and primary school groups.

You can choose from a great variety of destinations, including Yorkshire, the Peak District, Cornwall, the Lake District and the West Midlands. And you can choose from an incredible variety of activities and experiences, from snowsports, water sports and adventure sports to shelter building, visiting a theme park or exploring a medieval castle.

Incredible landscapes

Here in the UK, we’re incredibly lucky to have some spectacular scenery right on our doorstep.

You could explore coastal landscapes and sustainability on a geography-focused visit to Cornwall. Or perhaps try the vast moorland and deep dales of the North York Moors. Or how about heading to the Yorkshire Dales to see the effects of hydrology on the landscape?

There are plenty of fantastic destinations that will benefit pupils by getting outside, having fun, and boosting learning all at the same time.

Book with Halsbury

Take a look at our range of UK school trips below, and then get in touch with one of our tour advisers to discuss your requirements.

Browse our trips

Political History Trip to Belfast

Explore the complexities of the political relationship between the UK and Ireland.

Geography Trip to Cornwall and Eden Project

Explore coastal landscapes, ecosystems and sustainability in the warmest, sunniest part of the UK!

General & Cultural Trip to Edinburgh

Enjoy an unforgettable introduction to the history and culture of Scotland in its capital city!

Art Trip to Edinburgh

Discover the rich artistic heritage of Scotland with visits to art galleries and museums!

Medicine Through Time In Edinburgh

Explore a number of key developments in the history of medicine in the 19th century.

Where to visit

School Trips to Belfast

Belfast is popular among politics groups who want to learn more about the complicated political history of the UK and Ireland.

Here, your students can learn more about the partition of Ireland and the Troubles.

School Trips to Edinburgh

Scotland’s long association with medical developments makes Edinburgh the perfect choice to learn more about medicine through time.

And Edinburgh is also a great option for a cultural school trip to Scotland, giving your students the opportunity to explore another part of the UK with a rich and unique culture.

School Trips to London

The huge variety of educational visits on offer makes London a great destination for almost any secondary or primary school trip.

So, whether you're looking to inspire your English literature, history, performing arts or religious studies students, London is a no-brainer.

School Trips to Manchester

Manchester is a fantastic opportunity for your students to learn more about the North.

Manchester is a very popular choice among art groups, who will love exploring one of the country's most progressive art scenes. Meanwhile, groups can discover the role that Manchester and the rest of the North West played in WW2.

School Trips to Nottingham

Nottingham are most popular for Activities Week, as we can arrange for you to stay at the National Water Sports Centre in Holme Pierrepont.

Just outside of the city centre, your students will love trying the various water sports on offer at the Sports Centre.

• Imperial War Museum London

Through its exhibitions, collections and varied programmes, the Imperial War Museum London offers a stimulating and memorable learning experience.The Museum… Read More

Through its exhibitions, collections and varied programmes, the Imperial War Museum London offers a stimulating and memorable learning experience.The Museum has historical displays on the two world wars and post-war conflicts, a major exhibition on the Holocaust, art galleries and a range of fascinating temporary exhibitions. Discover the story of those who have lived, fought and died in conflict from the First World War to the present day. Learn about the conditions endured by First World War troops in The Trench Experience, explore the role of espionage in The Secret War, and find out about children who lived through evacuation in The Children’s War. Interactive displays and a changing programme of temporary exhibitions make this a fascinating and absorbing day out.

Relevant links

• Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is the world's leading museum of natural history. It contains a range of interactive exhibitions including… Read More

The Natural History Museum is the world's leading museum of natural history. It contains a range of interactive exhibitions including an earthquake experience and a large dinosaur exhibition which includes a life size 3D T-Rex.

• Eden Project

The Eden Project is an educational charity, social enterprise and visitor attraction located close to St. Austell in Cornwall.… Read More

The Eden Project is an educational charity, social enterprise and visitor attraction located close to St. Austell in Cornwall. It's dominated by two biomes, one simulating a rainforest environment and the other a Mediterranean environment.The Eden Project is a fantastic place for school groups of all ages, from primary up to A-Level and beyond. There's a huge range of curriculum-linked workshops on offer, including a GCSE geography fieldwork workshop and another entitled 'Biodiversity under Threat'. You could even choose a workshop focusing on sustainability and eco-tourism. For art students there is a workshop exploring art and design and technology.

• York Castle Museum

York Castle Museum is actually housed in prison (a debtors' prison and a women's prison) buildings, which were themselves built… Read More

York Castle Museum is actually housed in prison (a debtors' prison and a women's prison) buildings, which were themselves built on the site of the former castle. There are various exhibitions, including a Victorian Street you can actually walk down, as well as exhibitions on WW1, toys and the sixties. Perhaps one of the biggest attractions, given the museum's own past, is the exhibition on York Castle Prison. Here, you can get a real taste for life in the cells, and the history of crime and punishment in Britain.

Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth Castle's history dates back over 900 years, from Norman times right through to the Tudor period and beyond. It's… Read More

Kenilworth Castle's history dates back over 900 years, from Norman times right through to the Tudor period and beyond. It's a wonderful example of a semi-royal castle of the late middle ages and was famously the scene of the 6-month long Siege of Kenilworth in 1266. The castle was also the scene of the removal of Edward II from the English throne. Queen Elizabeth I was a guest here of the Earl of Leicester in 1575, where he attempted to impress her enough that she would marry him. Although it was an exceptionally lavish visit, with no expense spared, Queen Elizabeth remained unconvinced.

Tudor World Museum - Shakespeare Walking Tour

Enjoy a guided tour of Stratford-Upon-Avon led by the Bard himself! 'William Shakespeare' will tell you all about his family,… Read More

Enjoy a guided tour of Stratford-Upon-Avon led by the Bard himself! 'William Shakespeare' will tell you all about his family, how his hometown inspired his work and what life was like during the Tudor period.

West End Show

Head to London's famous West End to catch an incredible show! Some of the world's most famous productions have been… Read More

Head to London's famous West End to catch an incredible show! Some of the world's most famous productions have been staged in London's West End, which is one of the most important theatre districts in the world. You may even catch a Hollywood star treading the boards here!.

• Tate St. Ives

Tate St Ives is one of the four Tate Galleries across the UK and in 2017 was refurbished and extended.… Read More

Tate St Ives is one of the four Tate Galleries across the UK and in 2017 was refurbished and extended. The Tate St Ives can now provide a permanent presence to those iconic 20th century artists who lived and worked in the town, demonstrating the role of St Ives in the story of modern art.

• National Theatre Backstage Tours

Get exclusive access to unseen parts of the building on a tour led by experienced and enthusiastic National Theatre guides.… Read More

Get exclusive access to unseen parts of the building on a tour led by experienced and enthusiastic National Theatre guides. Discover the history of the iconic building, visit the three auditoriums and their backstage areas and see the workshops where sets and props are created.

Why choose Halsbury?

School trips designed by teachers for teachers

Originally founded by teachers in 1986, we understand the pressures on you as Group Leader and are here to make the process of running your school trip as easy as possible.

Learn more about Halsbury Travel

School trips tailored to your curriculum

We'll design your trip around your specific learning objectives and curriculum, to ensure your school trip is a truly educational experience.

Discover how we’ll tailor your school trip

Health & safety prioritised

As a proud Assured Member of the School Travel Forum, the health and safety of your group is always our priority.

Find out how we ensure your health and safety

Support every step of the way

We'll be with you every step of the way, from your very first enquiry until the moment you return home, including 24-hour support while you’re on your school trip.

Find out about the support we offer

Financially secure school trips

We're ABTA bonded and all our air tours are ATOL protected , so you can be sure that your school trip is financially secure.

Find out more about our accreditations

Rewarding loyalty scheme

You'll earn loyalty points from your very first school trip with Halsbury. These can be used towards a discount on your school trip or a free gift for your school.

Explore our loyalty scheme

Frequently Asked Questions

I can’t see the destination i’m looking to travel to, can you still help me with my trip.

Yes, absolutely. The destinations listed on our website are only a sample of the different trips we can offer. If you have another destination in mind, simply fill out our enquiry form with all your requirements and one of our Tour Advisers will be in touch with a tailor-made quote.

Do you offer travel insurance?

Yes, all of our trips include comprehensive travel insurance, which now includes Covid cover. This group travel insurance covers individuals needing to drop out of the trip in the following circumstances:

• Because a Qualified Medical Practitioner has diagnosed them as positive for Covid-19 within up to 14 days of departure.
• Because they have been hospitalised due to Covid-19 within up to 28 days of departure.
• Because they have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test & Trace for a period of time that prevents them from taking part in the trip.

The insurance also covers reasonable additional costs of accommodation and flights should an individual contract Covid-19 and have to self-isolate while abroad.

And the policy also covers reasonable additional costs to account for a family member to come across or a group leader/teacher to stay with the individual.

Please contact us for details.

What accommodation options are available?

You can see examples of the types of accommodation we have available in different destinations on the sample trip pages linked above.

All of our accommodation partners have been chosen based on their suitability for school groups. As a member of the School Travel Forum (STF), you can be certain that all accommodation contracted by us complies with local legislation with respect to fire and general safety, is contracted by trained Halsbury Travel staff or reputable agents, receives a standard audit and risk assessment prior to use by Halsbury Travel and receives a supplementary audit if it is used on five or more occasions in a year.

Your Tour Adviser will discuss your accommodation preferences with you when putting together your tailor-made quote and will assist you in choosing the best accommodation for your budget and requirements.

Can the trip itinerary be adapted to my curriculum and requirements?

Every trip we organise is unique and your itinerary manager will work with you to understand your curriculum and adapt the itinerary to suit your learning objectives. The itineraries featured on our website are just a sample of what's achievable within a given timeframe. The trip duration and the activities and excursions can be tailored to your needs and budget.

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The Halsbury Difference

Originally founded by teachers in 1986 and with several former teachers in our team, we understand the pressures on you as Group Leader and work hard to relieve them.

Trips tailored to your curriculum and learning objectives

We’ll design your trip around your specific learning objectives and curriculum, to ensure it meets your particular requirements.

Work together with other teachers in your school to save thousands of pounds on future school trips with our multi-trip loyalty scheme!

School Trips

Are you looking for fun, educational and active school trip ideas? Why not try an outdoor adventure at one of our UK activity centres? Our outdoor learning activities are perfect for primary , secondary , home schooling , college and university school residential trips. We’ve been awarded the Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Quality Badge which ensures our curriculum-based activities meet your learning objectives

ENQUIRE ABOUT YOUR NEXT SCHOOL RESIDENTIAL

Primary school trips.

At Rock UK we focus on really making a difference to every child that visits us. Rather than numbers through the door, our goal is to provide quality educational school trips and memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you are bringing Year One children for a taster one night adventure or your Year Six class on an action packed week away, we work closely with you to tailor all outdoor learning activities to be age appropriate.

For many children this is the first significant time they’ve spent away from home, but by the end of their school residential adventure trip their confidence will have grown massively.

Our instructors are really good at working with young children and helping them overcome fears and challenges to bring out a completely different side, which teachers may not have seen before.

We have a number of great ways to help you spend your Sports Premium including activity days and weekly courses.

Hear what schools have to say about Rock UK:

View the Rock UK Schools Brochure

Creating CONFIDENT KIDS since 1922

Secondary School Trips

We know that it is important to get students out of their comfort zones. At Rock UK we tailor secondary school trips to include challenging outdoor education activities which help boost self-esteem.

A visit to one of our activity centres can cover many areas of the curriculum through outdoor learning including; PHSE, SMSC, maths, geography, science, RE and many more. Together we will tailor your experience to meet your learning outcomes, whether you come for a day visit or stay for a full week. Our aim is that students return to the classroom instilled with a sense of achievement and empowered to want to achieve more with a new appreciation for learning.

From team building fresher trips in Year Seven to exam Revision Retreats in Year Eleven, Rock UK centres across the country are ideal for secondary schools.

College & University Trips

Whether it’s getting to know your fellow students on a fresher’s week away, you’re planning a Christian Union house party and need a venue, or you’re looking for somewhere to host your team building session for a group of trainee doctors or business students, we have a venue that will suit your needs. You can choose an overnight residential stay or just come for the day.

We have group accommodation for 6 to 234 people depending on the centre you choose and there are various sized meeting rooms available. Not forgetting over 40 instructor led activities to break up the day, including an excellent range of team building challenges for all ages.

Revision retreats can make an enormous difference to students

Revision Retreats

Rock UK centres provide the perfect venues for your revision retreats. Revision breaks are a great way of focusing students, encouraging strong study skills going forward and reducing stress at a time when students need it most.

Your students can spend time working in teacher led sessions, on group revision tasks as well as private study time. All this in the peace and tranquillity of our beautiful sites. At home students are surrounded by distractions: television, games consoles, computers and much more.

Coming away to our sites for focused revision time can make an enormous difference to students and foster great study skills when they do return home. Combined with a schedule of active sessions students are rewarded for their hard work and encouraged to study harder. Not only does activity provide the perfect respite for a tired mind but also reduces stress. Sample revision breaks programme and prices

Home schooling Trips

Outdoor adventure learning is an important part of every child’s development and at Rock UK we recognise this by offering group adventure trips to home school students.

Our activity centres have group accommodation from 6 to 234 and this makes it possible for home school networks, of whatever size, to come together and benefit from outdoor education.

We offer over 40 instructed activities across our four nationwide centres and we’ll work with your home schooling network to tailor a programme ideally suited to your group’s individual needs.

Helping young minds meet the world, our high quality courses, connect junior students worldwide.

From woods to coast to mountains, Active Learning Centres are dedicated to helping young people develop essential skills and more.

A leading provider of outdoor education, The Bushcraft Company gives students a real outdoor adventure.

SuperCamps offers a wide range of activity and specialist programmes providing holiday provision and activities catering to all tastes.

Camp Wilderness provides back to basics overnight camps, helping children to unplug and rewild during the summer holidays.

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R e s i d e n t i a l   s c h o o l   t r i p s   i n   t h e   g r e a t   o u t d o o r s  

Not everything can be taught in a classroom. We believe that some of the most important life skills are best learned outside. Get back to basics on our residential Bushcraft school trips and give your students the chance to grow.

A place FOR ALL

School trips with us are a little different, taking students into the wild and giving them an unforgettable back to nature experience, where they will pick up life skills in the freedom of a unique outdoor environment.

These true outdoor residentials immerse your students in the wild, giving them the confidence and resilience they need to navigate the world around them.

Talk to Us Today

Want to know more? Get in contact with us to talk more about our school trips, book a meeting with us and our friendly team will answer any questions. We look forward to meeting you.

BOOKINGS ARE OPEN FOR 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR

C o m p e t i t i v e   p r i c i n g  

We want to make our adventures accessible to as many students as possible, so we keep our prices fair to allow all students to have a taste of the adventure!

We tailor make each trip so prices can vary, depending on factors such as dates and student numbers.

Our autumn trips start from £99 per student and our summer trips start from £125 per student.

Our school trip adventures are available at a number of spectacular woodland sites across the UK. Away from their screens and technology our camps provide the perfect setting for students to totally immerse themselves in the natural world, a place for fun, freedom, and adventure!

Badminton Woods

Didmarton, Badminton GL9 1AH, UK

Penshurst Place

Leigh, Tonbridge TN11 8HX, UK

Boughton Woods

Geddington, Kettering NN14 1EB, UK

Castle Howard

Castle Howard, York, UK

Y O U   C A N ’ T   T E A C H   T H I S   I N   A   C L A S S R O O M  

We believe that developing character in students is equally as important as creating a framework for academic success. At the heart of character is self-confidence together with the ability to bounce back from the knocks that come with taking on new challenges. All our experiences help students to grow in confidence while having fun and learning new practical skills along the way.

“If there was an 11 you’d get that!  Thank you for a wonderful 3 days with you. I could not fault you from minute 1 and I would recommend you to anyone. Thank you!”

“Beautiful location, fantastic staff from forest leaders to chefs. Amazing time had by all! We will be back in 2024.”

“This is our 3rd Bushcraft experience and we will definitely be back again in 2024. We really felt that Bushcraft is back, bigger and even better than ever.”

“A fantastic trip where children are able to just “be” and revel in the joys of nature and build team working skills and self confidence. The staff are incredibly supportive and really inspire the children. An amazing trip, well worth it!”

“This has genuinely been the most fantastic experience for our children. We genuinely couldn’t fault a single thing.”

The course delivery was excellent, the students had an excellent time and really enjoyed themselves whilst learning many new skills and made many new friends.

Camp leaders were engaging and informative, great personalities that mixed with the children well, brilliant at making sure everyone got as much out of the trip as possible.

The children had an amazing time. All of the staff were brilliant we couldn’t have asked for more.

“Fantastic staff, amazing enthusiasm. So positive and any behaviour dealt with brilliantly. Students thoroughly enjoyed being trusted and learning new things.”

“Observing students playing and engaging with nature and each other – without technology was and absolute delight”

“Our year 7 students all loved their Bushcraft experience at Penshurst Place from the initial safety talk to the final ‘leave no trace’ activity. Everyone had an amazing time. The teams are full of energy and this enthused the students. The activities are fun and varied – it is a trip that will become a life long memory”

Why come on a Bushcraft residential?

Go on an unforgettable school trip that will support the personal development of primary school pupils from year 3 to year 6 in the transition to their next stage of education. With an abundance of fun activities that challenge survival skills and the opportunity to sleep in the woods under the stars, students at Bushcraft will be kept busy and entertained reducing any feelings of homesickness.

Build on lessons learnt in the classroom on a once in a lifetime adventure with your students. Whether you come in autumn as a way to start the new year with an adventure, or in summer to celebrate the completion of the first year, a year 7 or secondary school trip with The Bushcraft Company can be an important stepping stone in your students educational pathway.

Saving you time and effort

Everything you need in one place.

We provide all the information you will need to plan the adventure, from group planners and kit lists to assembly packs and parent resources. This also includes useful articles on advice before and during the trip and we offer talks to give you more information and answer any questions you might have.

We provide a full and comprehensive risk assessment of all activities and the camp itself, minimising the paperwork!

Want to know more? Get in touch!

The Bushcraft Company

Or fill out the form below and we’ll get in touch. Fields marked with an asterisk ‘*’ are mandatory.

J O I N   T H E   B U S H C R A F T E R S  

As a leading provider of outdoor education in the UK, every year we recruit remarkable individuals to join our team and inspire young people. If you love the outdoors and want to help us create unforgettable outdoor school experiences, then The Bushcraft Company is the place for you!

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Primary School Residential Trips

More than just a school trip Enquire Now

Bringing out the best in young people is what we do best

Receive the very best support for fantastic primary school residential trips at PGL. With us, everything is included – the activities, equipment, accommodation and food. Your dedicated ‘Groupie’ will be on hand to support you and your group and they’ll run lively entertainment sessions in the evenings so you can relax after a busy day.

Whether you choose a PGL residential activity centre in the UK or France, it’ll be a school journey they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.

We go above and beyond to protect the safety and wellbeing of everyone in our care.

Our long-standing dedication to safety has led to us holding over 15 governing and safety accreditations, and we voluntarily apply for Ofsted inspections to be on the Childcare Register.

Everything we do is built on five protective pillars:

Safe Travels Our travel partners are carefully vetted to ensure they meet our high standards and are able to demonstrate effective safety management systems – providing transport that is safe, reliable, suitable for children and adaptable to the needs of our guests.

Our Locations

Hover over or tap on the map markers below to find out more about each centre. Filter the centres using the dropdowns or via the buttons below.

Programmes Available for Primary Schools:

–Please select a programme– –Please choose an option– –Please choose an option–

Brecon Beacons – Tregoyd House

Based at the foot of the atmospheric Black Mountains in the Brecon Beacons, Tregoyd House is a stunning mansion dating back to the early 1900s. Tregoyd is the perfect place for an incredible outdoor adventure surrounded by breath-taking scenery.

Dorset – Osmington Bay

Located on the spectacular Jurassic Coast, enjoying views across to Weymouth, Osmington Bay is an incredibly special place to visit. It boasts all the land-based activities that you would expect to find at a PGL centre, along with thrilling water sports at the nearby Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy.

Isle of Wight – Little Canada

Nestled between 56 acres of woodlands and the inlet waters of Wootton Creek, this unique centre on the Isle of Wight is bursting with challenging activities on land and water, and is instantly recognisable by its charming log cabins on the riverbank.

Lancashire – Winmarleigh Hall

Winmarleigh Hall is a 19th Century country house set in 50 acres of gardens, parkland and woodland with a large, purpose-built lake. Close to the historic city of Lancaster and the Forest of Bowland, this centre is crammed with activites and things to do.

Lincolnshire – Caythorpe Court

This jewel of the East Midlands has over 45 acres of glorious Lincolnshire countryside to explore, bursting with thrilling activites designed to challenge, inspire and bond.

North Devon – Beam House

Close to the beach and surf school at Westward Ho!, Beam House is the perfect location to watch your group hone their surfing skills on the waves and soak in the dramatic views along the coastline.

North Yorkshire – Newby Wiske Hall

Newby by name, Newby by nature! Previously a police training centre, this historic 17th century country house opened its doors as a PGL activity centre in 2023 after a huge transformation. The centre is surrounded by beautiful North Yorkshire countryside, known for its rolling hills, lush green landscapes and scenic beauty.

Northumberland – Ford Castle

A breathtaking castle in the rolling Northumberland countryside where old meets new... historical fortifications bursting with modern facilities and exclusive activities!

Paris – Château de Grande Romaine

This pretty French château is perfectly placed to explore the delights of Paris and Northern France. Nestled in scenic countryside and woodland, this centre boasts an outdoor heated swimming pool and fantastic facilities.

Perthshire – Dalguise

Dalguise activity centre is set in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. Nestled in a beautiful wooded valley, just five miles north of Dunkeld.

Shropshire – Boreatton Park

With 250 acres of countryside, woodland and multiple lakes, our biggest centre is one of our most popular destinations for the adventure of a lifetime.

South Devon – Barton Hall

At the heart of the English Riviera with views over Torquay and blue flag beaches, it's easy to see why this beautiful centre in Devon is so popular with schools and groups.

Suffolk – Bawdsey Manor

This impressive mansion house is located on the Deben Estuary and has panoramic views across the Suffolk Heritage Coast. The centre has over 140 acres of beautiful grounds, packed with a huge range of adventure activities to inspire and motivate your group.

Surrey – Marchants Hill

With over 45 acres of beautiful grounds, Marchants Hill is a vibrant and bustling centre nestled in the ‘Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, within walking distance of the Devil’s Punchbowl. This centre offers the best of both worlds – green spaces and fantastic transport links!

Sussex – Windmill Hill

Welcome to Windmill Hill, an impressive Grade II listed mansion house on the beautiful Sussex Downs… where big adventures, new discoveries and unforgettable experiences can be found around every corner!

Wiltshire – Liddington

As one of PGL’s largest centres, Liddington is bursting with outdoor activities and sports facilities. Buzzing with activity and packed with challenges to conquer with your group. Situated on the ancient Ridgeway track bordering the North Wessex Downs, yet conveniently located just minutes from the M4

Break out of the classroom and harness the power of outdoor learning with R.E.A.C.H. , tailored specifically for unforgettable residential trips for primary schools. 

At PGL, we’ve identified what really matters to students and created our new R.E.A.C.H. framework designed to spark incredible breakthroughs i n their education through adventure.

Relationships

"understanding the importance of healthy and supportive relationships with peers, learning to work as a team, building connections, improving listening and communication skills and respecting one another.", experiences, "whether it is trying a thrilling activity, staying away from home for the first time, or visiting a different country - new experiences give young people the confidence to thrive in new environments.", "from mastering a technique or discovering hidden talents to improving problem solving skills, our programmes inspire a passion for lifelong learning and development.", "helping young people develop positive traits to become well-rounded, happy individuals, through encouraging self-confidence, resilience, determination, curiosity, independence and empathy. ", health & wellbeing, "being active, spending time outdoors, making connections with friends and taking a break away from technology and daily stresses supports emotional wellbeing, reduces anxiety and improves physical fitness.".

Engaging children is what we’re best at, and learning through adventure is what we’re all about. We’ve got many different ways to breathe life into your classroom experiences for pupils – whatever the desired learning outcome is, we’ll deliver the right programme to make it happen for your primary school residential trips.

Multi-Activity

Our most popular multi-activity course. We pack so much into each day, it’ll be an outdoor learning experience they’ll never forget.

• French Package

Spark inspiration through and unforgettable experience of France, its language and its culture.

French Tailor made

Build your perfect itinerary of French excursions with the help of our team for truly personal French experience.

• Primary to Secondary Transition

Specifically designed to help your KS2 (P7) pupils build confidence and develop tools to successfully take the next step in their educational adventure.

REACH – MASTER!

Brilliant bushcraft adventures to help your Year 5 pupils solve real-life problems and prepare for life’s knottiest challenges!

REACH – PIONEER!

Let us guide your pupils through their first PGL experience, supporting them and building their confidence along the way.

REACH – UNITE! for year 6

The most thrilling way to begin Year 6? Bring everyone together with our new UNITE! outdoor adventure that builds relationships and boosts teamwork.

Ski & Snowboarding

Test their skills on the slopes and enjoy the full support of your very own PGL Ski Rep. We operate in resorts around Europe and beyond to deliver the very best in school ski.

• UK Explorer

Combine inspiring UK excursions and adventure activities with a fully personalised itinerary, for a trip to capture their imagination.

PGL is the home of adventure! Our varied programmes offer over 40 exhilarating activities for your primary school residential trip spanning land, water and sky, giving your students a remarkable journey of excitement and discovery.

Safety always comes first – all our outdoor learning activities are fully insured, and our team of trained instructors prioritise your students’ well-being throughout every adventure.

–Select an activity–

The tower is over 10 metres high. The task – to walk backwards off the top, gradually working back towards ground level, suspended only on a rope. It’s all about trust, courage and confidence. It’s also a very dynamic way to learn calculating and controlling risk. Some children deal with heights more easily than others, but the support and encouragement of the rest of the group is important for each individual’s success and will help strengthen peer relationships.

Aeroball / Airball

A cross between trampolining, basketball and volleyball - it’s an exhilarating, high-energy sport. Four players learn the basics required - then spring into action! The aim is to get the ball in the opposing player's net. As well as being lots of fun, your group will develop team tactics and improve communication skills along the way.

All aboard is all about building trust and strengthening peer relationships – at the top of a 6 metre pole! Teams of up to four pupils scale the pole to reach the small platform at the top. Balancing on the platform becomes more difficult as more team members arrive to share the space. The challenge is to cooperate and support each other. The task is complete when all four team members successfully stand together at the top of the pole. Weight limit: 150kg

Our inflatable obstacle assault course, situated atop our very own on-centre lake will be sure to challenge your group as they attempt to make their way across without getting wet...who are we kidding, it's all about getting soaked! Available May to October, exclusive to Newby Wiske Hall

Have a splash with inflatable fun in the pool

Our Archery sessions offer the chance for every pupil to experience success. Accuracy, control and a steady hand are vital for achieving the best results and many children discover a talent for a new skill. Handling bows and arrows may be a brand new experience for your group and presents a variety of new challenges! We encourage safety awareness from the outset and teach the basic skills on an indoor or outdoor range.

Archery Tag

Let the battle commence! Archery with a twist - you are aiming for each other! In this game of skill and teamwork you are equipped with foam tipped arrows to battle it out in action packed games. You will do some basic skills training before entering the arena to see who comes out victorious! Available March to September

Beach Games

Life's a beach! Fun games and activities on the coastline near to your centre.

Beach/Coastal Walk

Explore the area and discover the natural environment while our instructors lead activities or games along the beach or coastline close to your PGL centre. If appropriate to your choice of course, there are various practical tasks that you can carry out during your walk. There are opportunities to examine coastal features, compare local beach profiles and begin to explore marine ecology. *Exclusive to Bawdsey Manor*

Bodyboarding

Bodyboarding is a great way to introduce your pupils to surfing as it requires many of the same skills, but does not demand that the beginner manoeuvres a large surfboard. A body board is small and light and easier to handle; your pupils will learn how to catch, ride and enjoy the waves in the surfing environment. The perfect introduction to a very popular sport!

Bridge Abseil

New and exclusive to Ford Castle! The ultimate abseil experience! An exhilarating and unique Bridge Abseiling activity from the top of the bridge into the stunning valley below. This is sure to be an experience to remember for everyone! Watch pupils' courage, self-belief and confidence build as they walk backwards off the top, gradually working back towards ground level, suspended only on a rope. Some young people deal with heights more easily than others, but the support and encouragement of the rest of the group is important for each individual’s success and will help strengthen peer relationships.

Groups explore a nearby burn, waterfall and a dam and learn about the impact of erosion, water filtration and the flora and fauna of the burn environment. On their way along the burn, groups participate in a number of activities designed to encourage communication, teamwork and leadership. The session ends with a review of what has been learnt and what the group will take back home with them from the experience. *Exclusive to PGL Dalguise*

Canoeing is exciting, challenging and fun. It’s also a great opportunity for students to learn new skills such as paddling and steering in order to control their craft effectively. Communication skills also play a part as students work together and encourage each other.

Challenge Course

The PGL Challenge Course is legendary – it’s a well-loved and popular activity with plenty of opportunities for everyone to get involved; it can even get quite competitive sometimes! As your pupils negotiate the various obstacles that lie ahead, it’s an experience that will promote teamwork, lateral thinking, problem solving and decision-making – as well as being physically challenging too.

Your pupils will need to combine different skills including perseverance, strength, an ability to deal with heights – as well as trust in their belay partner and equipment. Those who have never tried it before will find it an exhilarating experience. Climbing at PGL may take place on indoor walls or outdoor climbing towers; whichever it is, we always use a top-rope belay for safety. Weight limit: 140kg

Crate Climb

The crate challenge is a test of innovative thinking, construction, balance, courage – and above all effective teamwork. Your pupils’ activity group is divided into two teams that compete against each other to build the tallest tower of crates. With two pupils standing on top as the tower grows, each team has to come up with ever more innovative ways of getting more crates to the top, as the pair on top become more and more precariously balanced! Weight limit: 150kg

Your group will love trying their hand at this exciting, fast-paced sport in the great outdoors! A flying disc sport, players will take it in turns to throw a frisbee disc at a target as they make their way across a 9-holed disc course! The perfect introduction to both frisbee and golf, Disc Golf is the ideal way to incite a little healthy competition amongst groups!

Dragon Boating

Manoeuvring and racing a dragon boat demands good coordination and communication of a large team - as many as 24 pupils learn to paddle rhythmically and effectively together in a race across the water. Ultimate success depends on tactics, technique and brute effort - but in the end there are no losers– just a lot of fun, laughter and mutual support along the way.

Fencing is a great workout for both body and brain. It’s challenging, exciting and involves good eye-to-hand coordination, fast footwork, lightning reflexes and even quicker decision-making. It’s a sport that offers huge potential for the enthusiast to learn more and progress at club level, but it’s also accessible and great fun for beginners too. Our qualified instructors will teach your pupils the basic principles and safety procedures before they progress onto outwitting their opponent in this great Olympic sport.

Forest Walk

Our staff lead a walk into the forest around the centre to discover the natural environment through activities, set tasks and games that will help your pupils get the most from their experience.

Giant Stand Up Paddleboard

The giant stand up paddleboard is a fun and relaxing way for your students to enjoy being on the water. It's a great activity for building confidence on a board through teamwork, balance and coordination. Available May to October.

Giant Swing

The ultimate test of nerve and joint decision-making. Two or three of your students are harnessed into the swing, while other members of the group haul them up to 10 metres into the air. After the group in the swing decide together how high they want to go, a pull on the ripcord will send them plummeting earthward. It’s a fast and exhilarating drop, but good communication will get the right balance between fear and fun! Weight limit: 150kg

High Ropes Course

The high ropes activity is designed to help your pupils improve levels of trust and co-operation amongst themselves. Essentially it’s an individual challenge course involving balance, passing obstacles and holding your nerve, because the whole event takes place 12 metres (40 feet) above the ground. The encouragement that comes from the rest of the group can make all the difference to their success – so the challenge is ideal for promoting teamwork and the value of mutual support. Weight limit: 150kg

Your pupils can discover the natural beauty of the local surroundings around their PGL centre on a hike led by our staff. We’ll organise activities and set tasks to help your pupils get the most from the experience.

Jacob’s Ladder

It’s an exercise in teamwork and friendly cooperation. Your group’s objective, in teams of three, is to climb to the top of a suspended ladder of logs. The gaps between each log become wider, the higher you go. Pushing up, pulling up, standing on shoulders – it’s all about working together to achieve a joint purpose. The activity promotes friendship, communication, discussion, leadership and decision-making as each team progresses to the top. Weight limit: 150kg

Kayaking is a great way for your pupils to explore our lakes and rivers and it remains one of our most popular activities. Our instructors will help your pupils get started, teach them the basics and then help them to push the boundaries of what they can achieve. There are games and individual challenges to improve teamwork, communication and confidence on the water.

Keelboat Sailing

Learning the basics of sailing a larger dinghy is a rewarding experience, taking your pupils out of their normal environment and introducing a new set of skills. They’ll learn how (and when and why) to raise and lower the sails, and the importance of the keel that gives the boat its name. Our instructors are RYA qualified and will ensure your pupils get some hands-on experience; steering the boat and getting to grips with all the basic techniques required.

Introducing Laser 360; an exhilarating team event that’s easy to pick up, and much harder to step away from! Equipped with their very own laser gun and vest, groups will separate into two teams (Red vs green) where they’ll battle it out via a selection of tactical games. Combining team tactics, agility, communication, and determination, each team will work together to claim their spot as Laser 360 champions.

The wide-open landscapes at our adventure centres offer the ultimate backdrop to a team laser tag battle. Working in teams, your group will head off equipped with their own laser gun and vest. They'll develop team tactics, communication skills, and a steady hand as they duel to come out the triumphant team!

Micro Scooter

Watch on as your pupils hop aboard our marvellous Micro Scooters and whizz around with friends as part of this action-packed activity session. Groups will be shown how to manoeuvre safely as they spend time getting comfortable with their scooter, before participating in a series of exciting team games and challenges to help develop confidence and competence... along with those all-important coordination skills!

Orienteering

Orienteering makes an excellent introduction to practical map-reading and is an exciting way to get to know your surroundings on centre. Pupils work in small teams or in pairs to locate control points across the grounds of the centre. As it’s essentially a competitive activity, the idea is for your group to find all the controls more quickly than the others. The activity helps them to improve decision-making, map reading and correctly judging distances.

Problem Solving

Problem solving sessions test your pupils’ initiative and ingenuity. Children work in small teams to solve puzzles and complete set tasks - it’s a great way for your pupils to get to know each other really well. By the time they finish they’ll have an appreciation and understanding each individual’s ability (including their own!) when it comes to planning, communicating and making decisions – skills which are all key to achieving the objectives of each task.

Attached to a harness, step into the air and enjoy the adrenaline rush of free falling until a giant fan sweeps you into flying mode, bringing you gently to land! *Exclusive to Newby Wiske Hall

Raft Building

Down to the water’s edge and your pupils’ challenge is to design and build a robust and working raft. There’ll be a number of components available, including large plastic barrels, ropes and poles. Our staff can give as much or as little support as you’d like but it’s a great teamwork exercise and will help your pupils improve their communication, problem-solving and decision-making. Once rafts are ready to launch, the fun begins on the water!

Rifle Shooting

Shooting our lightweight air rifles tests individual skill and requires high levels of concentration and physical control. Children need to control their breathing, keep a steady hand, concentrate hard and focus on accuracy. Do all this, and there’s a good chance of being rewarded with the success of a good score!

River Bivouac

The river ‘bivvy’ is an amazing chance for your pupils to get close to nature and experience a night sleeping outdoors. Having reached the end of their first day’s canoeing down the Ardèche, they build a basic overnight camp on the beach by the river. During the evening, they’ll enjoy an evening meal at camp and after some evening entertainment, it’s finally time to bed down under the stars and re-charge for another thrilling day ahead.

River Canoe Voyage

Explore the beautiful River Till by canoe, led by our qualified paddle sport instructors. *Exclusive to Ford Castle

River Raft Challenge

What’s more adventurous than building a raft and testing it on the river? Well that’s what happens on our River Raft Challenge. It’s a great activity that promotes teamwork in your group as they work together to design a successful raft to compete with others. *Exclusive to Ford Castle

Sensory Trail

The sensory trail is a challenge in more ways than one. During the activity your pupils will negotiate a series of obstacles – blindfolded – with the other members of their group for guidance. It’s a challenge, which raises questions about our abilities and assumptions, and demands mutual trust, self belief, and effective communication to complete the course successfully.

Stand Up Paddleboard

SUP is a fun and relaxing way for kids to enjoy the water, build confidence on a board, and learn a new skill - this activity has quickly become a favourite!

Street Surfing

It doesn’t take long for your pupils to master the art of Street Surfing and experience a great sense of achievement, which is a wonderful confidence booster. Although the equipment and technique are entirely different, street surfing does resemble skateboarding a little. The technique is said to be a combination of snowboarding, skateboarding and surfing and it’s increasingly used in training for snowboarders and surfers.

Available at our main centre for surfing, Beam House, it’s a superb location close to the North Devon coast. Your group can learn all the basics with us - how to walk out into the sea through the waves with their boards, how to catch a wave. And having caught their wave, it’s all about acquiring the skill to stand up and surf back to the shore!

Once the ‘wilderness’ scenario is set, your pupils need to develop effective teamwork to build their shelter. Basic navigational skills and meteorological skills help them decide the layout of the site. They will have to identify and share out the key responsibilities for getting each task completed, and communicate well to get the most from the project. Work as a team to build a wilderness shelter on centre, and learn how to stay warm and dry using whatever you can find. You’ll need to plan your camp taking into account the prevailing weather and then share out the tasks to get the shelter built before time runs out...

Have a splash in our heated pool. Enjoy fun and games in and out of the water, under the supervision of a PGL Lifeguard

Tarka Trail Walk

Explore the history and natural beauty close to our North Devon centre, Beam House. Our staff will lead a circular walk from centre to visit the historic Rolle Canal, Beam Aqueduct, Torrington Commons and a section of the Tarka Trail.

Each stage of the trapeze counts as a success and requires courage and determination. The challenge starts with a climb to the top of a 6 metre pole. Next, a climb onto the small platform will require balance as pupils stand to make that leap for the trapeze! It’s an exhilarating and heart-pounding activity that will bring your pupils together in their support for each other. It also gives each participant a very real sense of personal achievement. Weight limit: 150kg

Traverse elements

An activity to test skills any cat would find easy! For your pupils, though, there are some thrilling challenges involved to test balance, skill and courage. After a climb to the top of a telegraph pole, individuals will need determination to tackle the series of beams and wires that lie ahead. For those watching, they’ll offer support and encouragement from the ground as they grow stronger as a team and learn to appreciate each other’s efforts.

Our qualified instructors help students to recognise and control the risks and then teach the basic skills and techniques needed for them to complete their climb into the treetops! Weight limit: 150kg

Treetop Adventure

Delivered by one of our trusted suppliers. On this treetop adventure, you will make your way across elevated platforms, obstacles, bridges and swings on this exciting high ropes course through the forest.

Tunnel Trail

On their own or in small groups, your pupils can discover a series of underground tunnels. The tunnels vary in size and they have various tasks to carry out during their exploration. Completing the tasks will improve pupils’ self-confidence, problem-solving skills and teamwork. Please note this activity will only be available between May and September at some centres due to weather.

Vertical Challenge

Vertical challenge offers a chance to use all those skills you would use in any ground-based challenge course – but it all takes place at height! Your pupils will be harnessed and instructed on how to belay each other. They make their way up a course of suspended obstacles that include climbing walls, cargo nets, crates and ropes. The Vertical Challenge develops physical skills as well as transferable skills including climbing, communication, cooperation and lots of group support. Weight limit: 150kg

Once at the top of the zip wire platform, pupils are securely attached to the overhead wire before making their flight across the sky! Their route may take them through a forest or even over a lake. It’s a hugely exhilarating experience that requires personal courage and determination – it pushes most children beyond their natural comfort zone. It’s also a chance for the rest of the group to offer support and encouragement. Weight limit: 90-120kg (varies by location)

If you love hide and seek, you’ll adore Ambush which takes this popular group game and ramps it up an extra notch! After sundown your group will split into small teams, with one team hiding within the centre grounds, leaving a trail for their competitors to follow. Great for developing strategic and team building skills. Ambush is usually run in the dark, and torches are advised. Available September to March

Balloon Splash

Each team completes a series of challenges or games to earn coins that will allow them to purchase items from a mystery box! Teams will then work closely together to create the best contraption to protect their water balloon from destruction.

The ultimate way to enjoy the great outdoors as a group! Enjoy a campfire tailored to your requirements. Get hands-on constructing your campfire during the day, and it will be lit ready for you to enjoy in the evening. If your group loves to sing or simply relax with some games around the campfire, our team can cater for all ages in the idyllic settings of our campfires.

Team PGL need help to solve a great mystery onsite! Groups are given a map with locations of characters on, and a score card to find out who committed the crime! In groups they’ll work to locate the character somewhere onsite and have a task to complete to receive information about the suspect. This game can take place in the evening, so torches are advised.

Creation Station

After a busy day in the great outdoors, our Creation Station session offers the perfect chance to relax and socialise with friends, while creating a keepsake to take home. Choose from a selection of arts and craft activities; from rock painting to creating friendship bracelets. The ideal way to unwind and flex your creativity!

Crêpe Making

A relaxing evening of board games and music while guests take it in turn to create their very own pancake. Mix and cook your own pancakes and choose from a selection of tasty toppings available to build your own topping tower!

A popular last night choice, guests learn the moves to popular hits with “follow-the-leader” sessions, plus lots of unique PGL dances! A fun and sociable evening.

Highland Games

Don your kilts to enjoy a selection of traditional Scottish games such as caber tossing and haggis throwing! Your team will create their very own Clan name before taking part in a series of thrilling challenges, before ultimately crowning the best Clan

Introducing Laser 360; an exhilarating team event that’s easy to pick up, and much harder to step away from! Equipped with their very own laser gun and vest, groups will separate into two teams (Red vs green) where they’ll battle it out via a selection of tactical games. Combining team tactics, agility, communication, and determination, each team will work together to claim their spot as Laser 360 champions

Movie Night

Lights, camera, action! Our on-centre cinema experience offers groups the opportunity to chill out with friends after a long day of action-packed adventures, and enjoy a film! Perfectly coupled with a trip to the on-site shop to grab a movie snack!

Passport to the World

Hop aboard PGL airlines to take a trip around the world! Here, groups are given a map with a mixture of country flags located around the site. Each country has a plaque located on the point on the map. The plaques have questions to answer related to that country, which must all be answered correctly before returning to base. It might be dark when this activity takes place, so torches are advised.

PGL Tournament

At PGL Tournament guests will play a series of exciting team games and complete a selection of individual challenges to determine which team is the best! Challenges include: Basketball Shoot, Human Skittle and Ultimate Frisbee

Have a splash in our heated outdoor pool. Enjoy fun poolside games and music with your Groupie, and under the supervision of a PGL Lifeguard

In teams, guests are set Q&A-style challenges with lots of interaction and plenty of variety to keep them motivated and to maximise their participation. As well as general knowledge, rounds may include dressing up, dancing and miming.

Silent Disco

Party the night away without the noise of a disco. Every guest has their own set of headphones, where guests can select music from a number of channels to find the tunes they enjoy. Then spend the evening dancing away with friends or trying to guess what song your friends are listening to.

Where are your locations for primary school residential trips?

Our residential activity centres for primary schools are based across the UK, and we’ve listed all of our fantastic locations below:

• Barton Hall, South Devon
• Bawdsey Manor, Suffolk
• Beam House, North Devon
• Boreatton Park, Shropshire
• Caythorpe Court, Lincolnshire
• Dalguise, Perthshire
• Ford Castle, Northumberland
• Liddington, Wiltshire
• Little Canada, Isle of Wight
• Marchants Hill, Surrey
• Newby Wiske Hall, North Yorkshire
• Osmington Bay, Dorset
• Tregoyd House, Brecon Beacons
• Windmill Hill, East Sussex
• Winmarleigh Hall, Lancashire
• Château de Grande Romaine, Paris

What’s included in a PGL primary school residential trip?

From accommodation to activities, equipment, food and drink – everything you need is included when you book a school trip with PGL. We expertly plan your itinerary, ensuring your days are filled with adventure on our primary school residential trips.

What’s the food like?

Your pupils will need some nutritious meals to fuel them for the day ahead and replenish their energy after thrilling activities on our residential trips for primary schools! Our outdoor activity centres offer a variety of options: a hearty breakfast spread with hot food, cereals, pastries, fruit, and yoghurt; a delicious sandwich selection for lunch with salad and fruit choices; and classic dinner options like bangers & mash and fish & chips! 

We accommodate various dietary requirements for religious, cultural, or medical reasons – simply inform us of any needs during your primary school trip with PGL.

You can take a look at our tasty meals to come on our sample menu .

What happens in the evenings?

Following on from a day of adventures, your students will tuck into a delicious meal in our canteens. Then, it’s time for some more fun! In the evenings, your primary school students can compete in quizzes and games, and sing songs around the campfire. On one evening, your students might also be able to have a bit of a dance at our disco! It’s great fun.

After this, it’s time to wind down and get into bed. Your primary school students will be getting involved with more adventurous activities in the morning so they’ll need a great sleep!

What’s the residential accommodation like for primary schools?

Depending on your primary school residential trip location, the accommodation is often dormitory-style rooms in our main buildings, chalets and other facilities. However, we also have some tent villages available at some locations.

Our dormitory rooms can hold large groups of pupils, some of which feature en suites and some with shared facilities. For teachers, we have single and en suite rooms available, as well as tents which can sleep one or two teachers.

What facilities does the primary school camp have?

Our primary school camps have many great facilities for you and your students! They’re mostly based on-site with some being just a short walk away. Let’s take a look at the facilities that you can expect to see at some of our locations:

• Playing fields/Floodlit sports pitch/Netball courts/Sports dome
• Classrooms/Lecture theatres
• Sports Halls
• Teachers’ lounges/bars
• Indoor activity zones
• Outdoor heated swimming pools
• Historic rooms
• Common room
• Drying rooms
• IT Facilities

Find your residential centre location to see the exact facilities available on your primary school trip.

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• Perthshire, Dalguise
• Northumberland, Ford Castle
• North Yorkshire, Newby Wiske Hall
• Lancashire, Winmarleigh Hall
• Shropshire, Boreatton Park
• Lincolnshire, Caythorpe Court
• Wiltshire, Liddington
• Powys, Tregoyd House
• Suffolk, Bawdsey Manor
• Isle of Wight, Little Canada
• Surrey, Marchants Hill
• East Sussex, Windmill Hill
• Devon, Barton Hall
• Devon, Beam House
• Dorset, Osmington Bay
• Paris, Chateau de Grande Romaine
• Ardeche, Domaine de Segries
• Ski Locations
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• R.E.A.C.H. – PIONEER! First Time Adventures
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• R.E.A.C.H. – GROW! Build Character
• R.E.A.C.H. – UNITE! Boost Relationships
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Accessibility

Accessibility modes, online dictionary, readable experience, visually pleasing experience, easy orientation.

PGL Schools & Groups Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• schoolsandgroups.pgl.co.uk
• May 12, 2024

Compliance status

We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email

Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all of the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.

Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside of it.

Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Disability profiles supported in our website

• Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
• Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
• Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
• ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
• Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
• Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

• Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
• Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over 7 different coloring options.
• Animations – epileptic users can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
• Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
• Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
• Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
• Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

Browser and assistive technology compatibility

We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers), both for Windows and for MAC users.

Notes, comments, and feedback

Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs, there may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

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Residential trips guaranteed to inspire and motivate children, instilling a lifelong love of adventure.

Trips for schools that inspire adventure

Wildchild trips for schools offer primary and secondary schools a bespoke range of authentic outdoor adventure experiences that build into unique and inspiring adventures., trips for schools with a difference.

Our trips for schools are what makes Wildchild unique above other providers.  We don’t just offer days of back-to-back activities taking children from one harness to another!

Wildchild school trips provide a real opportunity for children through to young adults to experience the natural world outside.  We deliver immersive outdoor education experiences in exciting woodland environments, with a key focus on engaging young people, helping them to identify and appreciate the many benefits and wonders of the natural world.

“Amazing opportunity for our children to interact with each other and nature – as well as develop survival and team-building skills”. Woodside Primary Academy

Adventurous activities that celebrate teamwork and resilience

Our varied residential trip for school programmes ensure achievement on a Wildchild Adventure is about much more than simply who climbed highest and who reached furthest.  We recognise and celebrate teamwork, resilience, the willingness to try new things and perseverance in overcoming personal challenges.

“Enlightening! Wonderful to see the children thrive and experience challenges in a safe manner! It scares them just enough to push them out of their comfort zones but remains fun!”  Whytemead Primary School

Click here for more information on our activities

Trips for Primary Schools

Our outdoor adventure trips for schools give primary school pupils an immersive introduction to outdoor learning.

Trips for Secondary schools

Challenging activities build resilience, independence and develop practical life skills that complement classroom learning.

Autumn/Winter Trips for Schools

Whatever the weather, time spent outdoors offers a unique opportunity for learning to be embedded back in the classroom

How to choose the best school trip

The opportunity to try new experiences, build resilience and grow as an individual makes a school trip worth every penny.

Exciting and flexible school trip accommodation in woodland settings

Our outdoor adventure centres provide spacious and natural woodland setting for our residential trips, convenient and easily accessible location, and flexible accommodation options. Whether you opt for the under-canvas camping experience with our bell-tented village in rural Hertfordshire, or the unique experience of our glamping pods in leafy Surrey, you’re guaranteed a great night’s sleep in a fabulous location!

“A perfect mix of adventurous and nature-based activities, delivered by wonderful staff in a lovely setting!”  Fircroft Primary School, Year 5

Visit our locations page for more information

Great value trips for schools

With one-night trips for schools starting at just £115 per person, a Wildchild residential trip provides a quality, value for money option for schools and groups looking for a real outdoor learning opportunity for their pupils within easy access, and without the added time and cost of a long journey.  The cost of your residential trip includes meals, accommodation, activities, evening activity programme, Wildchild instructors with you for the duration of your residential trip, and free teacher /leader places.

“Wonderful experience.  We were well guided, supervised and looked after.  We were educated, fed and shown a really good time”.   Newland House Prep School, Year 4

Read our blog on inclusive residential trips for schools that don’t cost the earth.

Don't just take our word for it...

The quality of our trips for schools and the commitment of our dedicated team are reflected in the many positive endorsements we received from our schools and groups, with a large number choosing to return to Wildchild for their school trip year after year. Whether you’re returning for your annual Wildchild residential trip, or joining us for the first time, you have our personal guarantee we will do everything we can to make your residential trip a trip of a lifetime.

“I can’t say enough positives about the staff – a fantastic, dedicated, engaging and helpful team”. West Ewell Primary School, Year 4

Read our customer comments and testimonials

To discuss a Wildchild school trip, click here or call us on 0845 371 7099 now.

"A fantastic experience for both pupils and teachers. It's been fantastic to see the children grow with such amazing support around them"" Markyate Primary School

"A perfect mix of adventurous and nature-based activities, delivered by wonderful staff in a lovely setting!"" Fircroft Primary School

"It was the wholesome, outdoorsy experience these kids desperately need while growing up in London." Hugh Myddleton Primary School

"Provided the children with the independence we needed. It also created an experience they will never forget"" Loose Primary School

"Wildchild’s ethos matches our own – teamwork, challenge and encouragement to face difficulties." Westfield Primary School

"Engaging, challenging, nurturing, taking all of us out of our comfort zones, connecting to the environment"" Streatham and Clapham Prep

"Kids loved it and we are returning next year. Fantastic outdoor experience and different from PGL." Allfarthing Primary School

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Why you should be insisting on LOtC for your school residential trips

7 September 2023

The benefits of learning outdoors and connecting with nature on school residential trips are widely documented, and outdoor learning is now Read article...

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Group residential adventures and outdoor activity centres

Providing day-trip and residential adventures that encourage confidence, resilience and life skills for schools and groups of all ages. Explore our programmes and outdoor activity centres across the UK and beyond.

Unique Activity Centre Experiences

Whether you are looking to strengthen relationships and teamwork, build the confidence and resilience of young people or achieve specific learning outcomes, you can experience some unbeatable moments at our residential activity centres .

This has been our  best visit so far, the staff were amazing, food great & the activities  well planned & exciting.  The new  improvements such as Quick Zip were a great addition.

Excellent activities for the children to enjoy and staff are excellent; very welcoming and very friendly.

The activities were good fun and run by experienced staff. Everything felt safe and well organised. The children enjoyed the food.

Great food, staff activities and always guaranteed a brilliant week. We have been for years and love every moment. This year has been one of our best experiences here.

Any enquiries sent to Green Park were responded to in an extremely timely manner. The activities, instructors and food were amazing and the accommodation was just right.

The experience was great. The staff were helpful, friendly and encouraging. The activities were fun. I would definitely recommend Kingswood. The 3G swing, leap of faith and obstacle course were the best bits. It exceeded expectations.

We were very impressed with the centre, particularly the flexibility of the staff, the level of communication before the trip and the genuine concern that we would have a positive and valuable experience both before and during our stay. The centre itself was great - clean and well looked after. We were very impressed with the on-duty night staff and the ease of contacting them.

It was such an amazing weekend with lovely staff who were very accommodating. All the activities were very enjoyable and good fun. Very helpful with all the requests made about the weekend and it was amazing that all the activities were well planned.

This has been our best visit so far, the staff were amazing, food great & the activities well planned & exciting.  The new improvements such as Quick Zip were a great addition.

The trainers were absolutely epic right from the start. They were over the top with energy and motivation. They made me feel welcome and they were positive the whole time I was there.

Our son had an amazing time and having looked at his booklet he brought home we could clearly see what he had done and achieved for himself.

Very well organised trip with staff members going above and beyond to try and solve problems. The activities met our expectations and incidents were recorded and sorted like expected.

Download our Groups information pack

Download our Teachers information pack

Inspirational Team Programmes

We provide a broad range of activity packages to ensure you have an adventure that best suits your group. Your programme will act as the core theme of your group visit, matched with learning outcomes of your choice. Explore our options below before checking out which outdoor centre is best for you:

NCS Live It (formerly Skills4Life)

This subsidised 5-day residential adventure is designed to support young people on their journey to adulthood by boosting social, entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills.

Skills4Life Higher Education

Accredited by Skills Builder Partnership (level 3), this programme combines essential life skills with teambuilding challenges and activities.

Skills4Life 11-15 Yrs

Using the outdoors as a vehicle for learning and personal development; enhancing social, entrepreneurial and problem-solving skills.

Adventure Plus

A flexible activity programme to support your specific learning outcomes

Sports Experiences

A range of sport and adventure opportunites to build confidence and team skills.

French Discovery

In partnership with Voyager Travel we have four beautiful centres set in breathtaking parts of France, perfect for an immersive residential.

Environmental Field Studies

Give your students an outstanding field work experience at Kingswood.

English in Action

Students build in confidence and skill with our immersive English language and adventure experiences

Corporate Packages

A unique experience to develop as a team, get out of the office and boost company wellbeing

Adventure for International Students

Immersive language programme with breath-taking activities.

A perfectly pre-built activity programme delivering confidence, resilience and life-skills

Our acclaimed 5-day residential adventure designed to support young people on their journey to adulthood.

An impactful outdoor education programme for students in higher education

Adapted from our NCS Skills4Life programme, a 5-day skills-based programme of challenges and outdoor adventures.

A unique residential centre experience

With 11 residential and outdoor activity centres across the UK, plus a Château in France, we are confident that you will find a perfect residential location for your group, business or school trip. Our residential and outdoor activity centres include large campuses with spacious indoor facilities as well as smaller, more compact sites which are perfect for younger adventurers. Our locations are open all year round and take bookings during any season!

An adventure to remember

Whether you're a primary or secondary school , group or business , we are raising the bar to provide the best outdoor learning and activities in the UK delivered at the best outdoor activity centres in the UK . A Kingswood, adventure is a combination of memorable experiences, challenging in and outdoor activities and opportunities to grow. Our trips offer you the chance to try something new while building confidence and resilience at any of the outdoor centres we have. You can book with us during any season, so there's a time that suits everyone! Embed learning back in school by booking a trip during the academic year in Autumn to Spring. Or, you can spend your break with us during Summer! Whether it's a day trip or a residential, our transformational trips offer something for everyone.

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© Kingswood 2022 Kingswood Learning and Leisure Group Limited, Kingswood House, Alkmaar Way, Norwich, NR6 6BF. Company number 03476432. Kingswood Colomendy Limited, Kingswood House, Alkmaar Way, Norwich, Norfolk, NR6 6BF. Company number 05897187.

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UK School Trips

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Plan My School Trip is full of engaging educational experiences. We help school travel organisers discover online & in-school workshops, local and national UK school trips & residentials, and overseas study tours. Choose from thousands of attractions, venues and outdoor education providers who can help with risk assessments and everything required to make your trip a success!

Search 1,000s of UK school trips or bring workshops into your classroom. Choose by curriculum subject, topic or keyword..

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Plan themed days, weeks, and months throughout the year..

Financial assistance and bursaries for school visits..

Need ideas or suggestions? Tailor make the perfect trip for your school

Features : School Trip News

Planning a day out, a week away, or for someone to bring a workshop into your school? Take a look at our latest interviews, news, reviews and inspiration.

A brand new woodland navigation activity for children to enjoy!

Located in an idyllic woodland setting, we are the premier outdoor activities and glamping centre for school residentials

Instructor Jobs Available

Big School Camp are looking for instructors to deliver the highest quality of education at every camp across the country! Details below:

Why the outdoor experience is so good for the mental health and wellbeing of young people.

Outdoor experiences provide an opportunity for young people to discover, explore and appreciate the natural world.

Experience, Learn and Develop with your young people at Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre

Experience, Learn and Develop with Avon Tyrrell in the New Forest - a special centre for your students next school trip!

Start your Bronze DofE at UKSA!

Two night Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition - including accommodation, ferry travel, breakfast, lunch and dinner

Storytelling Makes Learning EPIC!

Epic's programmes are designed to raise reading and writing standards in schools, but also help schools deliver knowledge-rich lessons

The Drama Hut - Celebrating a diverse and global community

Explore how Britain has influenced and been influenced by the wider world with a history workshop from The Drama Hut.

Cultural Capital and outdoor learning

School trips that increase cultural capital to give children the social assets to be resilient, capable, confident

School Trip News

Practical advice about organising school trips from museums, workshop providers, residential activity providers and teachers.

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Multi Activity Trips

Activity trips to challenge and excite.

At Rockley, we offer an exciting range of multi-activity trips in beautiful locations across UK and France. These diverse outdoor learning experiences empower young people to take on new challenges and to succeed outside the classroom whilst having a whole load of fun! It's a wonderful opportunity for young people to begin their journey as independent young people.

Select a multi-activity trip

Uk school residential trips, uk school day trips, why choose rockley.

• Over 47 Years' Experience
• Fully Accredited by RYA
• Unique learning locations
• Residential & Day Trips
• Duke of Edinburgh Scheme
• Supports GCSE Curriculum
• Supports Key Stages 2-4
• Improves self-esteem
• Forge relationships

School Trip Enquiry Form

If you have any questions, please call 01202 677272 or fill out the form below.

Enrichment Days

Explore our centres, la plagne 1800, buddens activity centre, rockley point activity centre, poole park activity centre, what our schools think.

“Brilliant, we would recommend Rockley without reservation. Amazed by the level of enthusiasm of your staff, I don’t know how they do it but it is brilliant!”

Swanage School

The Cooper School

“We've had a great week and the children have really enjoyed it and made so many good memories together. All the staff have been very attentive and really focused on making sure our groups have a good stay.”

St Swithun Wells

Download our brochure

Discover more about our school activity trips

Teacher Hub

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