Outdoor and Adventure Week
Written by: Staff at Gold LOtC Mark The Ryde School
At The Ryde School, Hertfordshire, an Outdoor and Adventure week (OAA Week), held during the first week of July, was initiated by the Headteacher in Summer 2012. Over the past ten years it has evolved alongside the developing Forest School programme delivered as part of the schools Creative Curriculum. The OAA Week has become eagerly anticipated by the pupils and is an established annual event in the school year.
During the week, the students participate in a range of outdoor activities and adventures that test their abilities, teach them new skills, and help them to understand the value and importance of adventure outside, as well as independence and active involvement. Some of these activities include:
- Den building and campfire cooking sessions,
- Storytelling and drama in outdoor, wild areas,
- Identifying and learning about local flora and fauna,
- Gardening and crafts,
- Learning how to use tools, both creatively and practically,
- Participating in a range of talks with topics on nature, adventure activities and ecology.
What we’ve learnt from going outside the classroom
Students have input on the content of OAA Week, showing how their thoughts and opinions are of value.
Full use is made of the varied settings on the school grounds, providing unique spaces for learning and creativity.
Students acquire practical skills such as how to use tools like hammers, peelers and wood slicers.
The students are trusted to use tents/tepees regularly during the OAA Week, and are ultimately taught about the value of independence.
Other teachers are regularly invited to see how the OAA Week is planned and executed to inspire them and other schools to consider running an OAA Week themselves.
