Outdoor Education
Making the Crux Move - Valley of the Rocks
Washing Up - Expedition Style
Our Philosophy
Young people have a natural drive to explore and discover through their own efforts. The thrill of learning about themselves, each other and their natural environment through outdoor activities is an invaluable aspect of their education. In our students we find an enormous capacity for adventure; their ability and instinctive desire to learn through challenge drives what we do.
Through our courses and extra-curricular activities we aim to not only prepare students for qualifications but to provide a progressive approach to adventure. The skills of planning, risk management, self-reliant performance and reviewing experience form the foundation for a life of safe and enriching discovery.
Our Facilities
The College is ideally placed on the edge of Exmoor with coast, countryside, open moorland, lakes and rivers within easy reach. We are able to offer a range of off-site activities in a beautiful and challenging environment even within a one hour lesson. Over a half-day or day we can provide flat water and white water canoeing, sailing, powerboating, hill walking, rock climbing and abseiling. On-site we can run problem solving, communication and team challenge activities. A dedicated multimedia classroom provides a base for theory work, presentations, planning and reviewing.
Further afield we run expeditions to all areas of the UK throughout the year and regularly abroad to the mountains of Europe.
The College has extensive experience in the delivery of adventurous activities, is a member of the Institute for Outdoor Learning and holds an Adventure Activities Licence.
Our Courses
BTEC First Diploma in Sport (Outdoor Education)
This is a double option course at Level 2, offered in Years 10 and 11. It is the ideal preparation for a career in sport, the outdoors or adventure training. It will appeal to active learners who are looking for an alternative to a traditional sports course.
Key Features
· Double option – 5 hours per week
· Level 2 qualification – equivalent to 4 GCSEs
· Assessed by practical and assignment work
· Water-based activities include canoeing, kayaking and sailing
· Land-based activities include climbing, expedition skills and leadership training
Course Structure
Over the two years of the course the following units are covered:
This unit provides students with an understanding of the structure and function of the skeletal system, the muscular system, the cardiovascular system and the respiratory system. This is related to fitness for outdoor activity.
· Health, Safety and Injury in Sport
This unit will develop students’ understanding of health and safety in the outdoors and how they can effectively assess and manage risks for the safe enjoyment of adventurous activities.
· Preparation for Sport
Here students will gain an insight into the essential preparation required for successful performance in the outdoors. Fitness, nutrition, planning and managing equipment are taught as key aspects of preparing for adventure.
· Practical Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
This unit develops the students’ knowledge, skills and understanding in a range of adventurous activities. The emphasis is on the acquisition of personal skills and independent experience on water and land.
· Leading Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
This unit extends the students’ experience of activities and places them in leadership roles. They will be taught how to work together to plan and lead simple, safe sessions for younger children in a range of activities.
· Expedition Experience
Students will undertake at least two expeditions to build their skills in navigation and campcraft, as well as introduce an understanding of the value of outdoor journeys for individuals and groups. This unit provides many of the classic experiences that are traditionally associated with outdoor education.
BTEC First and National Diplomas in Public Services
These courses have been a very popular option in the Sixth Form for many years. Full details can be found in the subjects section of the sixth form brochure.
Several units deal with outdoor and adventurous activities and we are fortunate in being able to deliver them all here. Students who choose these courses can expect to study Land-Based and Water-Based Adventurous Activities, Expedition Skills, Nautical Studies and Leadership. All these units are delivered by our Outdoor Education team.
Outdoor Instructor Course
This exciting two-year course appeals to students who wish to work in the outdoor industry or want to develop their leadership skills in a dynamic and rewarding way. Students learn through first hand experience of adventurous activities and expeditions, drawing on our superb local resources (Exmoor National Park, local lakes, rivers and coast) and venues across the UK. During the first year the focus is on the acquisition of personal skills in navigation, campcraft, kayaking, open canoeing, sailing and working with others. Students work towards Expedition Leadership, British Canoe Union and Royal Yachting Association awards, undertake two expeditions as a group member and receive Remote First Aid training and certification. The second year concentrates on the development of leadership and coaching skills in these activities. The team plan and run at least one expedition in the UK and individuals are expected to assist on at least two lower school or Duke of Edinburgh’s Award trips.
By the end of the course students can expect to have the following qualifications:
- Level 2 Award in Expedition Leadership (formerly BELA)
- BCU 3* kayak and canoe
- RYA Level 2 Dinghy Sailing
- Remote First Aid
In addition to this, students can access subsidized courses in other activities to broaden their experience. We organise this and coaching assessments for those who wish.
The course provides the unique opportunities for personal development traditionally associated with outdoor work and an excellent qualification base for employment in the outdoor and leisure industries.
Our Opportunities:
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme
Ten Tors Team
Mountain Bike Club
Alpine Club Ski Trip
Our Staff:
Rachel Cooper
Mari-Sian Morgan
Mark James
Chris Reeson
Bryony Sharpen
Darren Sherwood
James Whittaker
Caroline Young