By Sophie Hurcom Centres such as those run by AHOEC are the perfect environ-


ment for young people to learn about nature, culture and history all in a way they haven’t experienced before, as well as providing them with personal skills that will be of use throughout their life. An investigation carried out by OFSTED in 2008 found that, ‘When


planned and implemented well, learning outside the classroom con - tributed significantly to raising standards and improving pupils’ per- sonal, social and emotional development’. These skills that children gain are entirely transferable and are


the kind of qualities that will impact on their attitude throughout their school life. Similarly, in 2010 the English Outdoor Council produced a report


entitled Time for a Change in Outdoor Learning supported by a number of organisations, including AHOEC. One of their main conclusions was that outdoor learning, including a residential stay, should be an entitlement for all young people, something all young people currently do not benefit from.


Findings Among findings in the report is the fact that outdoor learning


reduces anti-social behaviour, crime and disengagement from edu - cation, as it can motivate people who may have had a negative experience in formal education. Additionally outdoor learning allows young people to challenge themselves, taking on risk but in a way that is managed and controlled. Visiting an outdoor adventure centre can be many young peo-


ple’s first time away from home, giving them the chance to gain some independence from their parents as well as provide them with memorable experiences early in their school life. Oppor tuni - ties that are not possible inside a classroom walls are open for young people to try, providing them with inspiration and opening them up to skills and talents they may not have been aware they were capable of before. Most importantly however, it can encourage young people


THE ADVENTURE BEGINS


Hall Place Outdoor Education Centre is set in the grounds of BCA (Berkshire College of Agriculture) in Burchetts Green, Berkshire. The centre utilises the 350 acre estate nestling in the Thames Valley


by offering opportunities for curriculum learning in an out of classroom setting using a fun, safe and stimulating environment and approach. Sessions include an archaeological dig for Roman remains; search-


ing for a downed wartime bomber and environmental exploration, each session embraces the outdoors and encourages cross curricular links including literacy, numeracy, ICT, communication and teamwork. A range of outdoor activities including high and low ropes, archery,


canoeing and kayaking, hill walking and climbing with opportunities to venture further afield to ensure opportunities to fully embrace the outdoors and everything it has to offer. Catering for both primary and secondary schools Hall Place OEC


can design a bespoke programme to the customers’ needs, encompass- ing their values and objectives. Courses and training for youth groups, adults and teachers is also provided. Hall Place also run schools holi- day camps, corporate days and birthday parties maximising the use of their fantastic resources.


History The history of Hall Place can be traced back as far as 1234, the orig-


inal house was demolished in 1728 and the current house was com- pleted in 1735 with the avenue of lime trees lining the entrance drive dating back to 1690. In 1948, Berkshire County Council acquired the land and the Berkshire College of Agriculture was born. Although no longer an agricultural college, BCA still offers a multi-


tude of land-based courses alongside a diverse range of vocational courses and A Levels. Offering a diverse range of courses, with out- standing OfSTED recognition the college continues to grow and devel- op itself in a changing world.


A fun, safe and stimulating environment for everyone – including Primary & Secondary students, adults, youth and corporate groups.


Outdoor learning helps to create new relationships. Photo by AHOEC.


School Activity Trips in North Wales Teithiau Gweithgarwch


i Ysgolion yng Ngogledd Cymru


Offering a range of outdoor activities:


Multi-activity Field Trips


Residential and Non-Residential Options


Aml-weithgarwch Teithiau Maes Opsiynau Preswyl a Di-breswyl


Call now or go online for more information


Ffoniwch nawr neu ewch ar-lein am ragor o wybodaeth


01248 670964 www.plasmenai.co.uk


Canolfan Chwaraeon Dˆ


 wr Genedlaethol, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1UE


• high and low ropes • archery • canoeing and kayaking • hill walking • climbing plus much more.


Summer camps and bespoke packages available.


To find out more, visit: www.hallplaceoec.co.uk call 01628 827552 or email BPetty@bca.ac.uk


Hall Place OEC, BCA, Burchetts Green, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 6QR actionetwork 23


Now open!


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