Outdoor Education and DofE Update
Published on 03/07/24
Russell McAlinden, Head of Outdoor Educations, provides an update on outdoor education and DofE at Stephen Perse Cambridge.
Duke of Edinburgh's Award
More than 100 students have completed their Bronze expedition training this year and are on track to complete the main expedition in September. Towards the end of term 30 Year 10s embark on their Silver expedition in the Peaks. In July, thirteen students undertake their Gold Qualifying expedition in the challenging terrain offered by the Lake District, having completed their Practice expedition during the Easter holidays in the Yorkshire Dales.
Adventure Learning Programme (ALPS)
The weekly ALPS programme has seen students having a go at kayaking, SUPs, archery, bushcraft and orienteering, in both club and sport sessions.
Adventure Learning Programme (ALPS) (Residential)
Peaks Climbing Weekend - Towards the start of the summer term eight budding climbers took part in our first ever school-led outdoor climbing trip to the Peak District. During the trip students had the opportunity to experience climbing on some of the most iconic climbing sites in the UK, including Stanage Edge. The trip was led by Mr McAlinden and Mr Crowley and was a massive success. The next trip has already been planned for next term!
Year 7 Norfolk Lakes
At the start of the summer half term, all students from Year 7 embarked on their adventure to Norfolk Lakes, taking part in kayaking, problem solving, archery, indoor climbing and caving, SUPs & canoeing. It was an excellent three day adventure for all involved, led by the Head of Year, Mr Need.
Year 8 Land and Wave
In June, led by Mr McAlinden and Miss de la Vega, 128 students and 12 teachers took part in the adventure week run by the amazing team at Land & Wave. This trip involved camping on the wonderful Jurassic Coast in the shadow of Corfe Castle and included a whole range of activities, such as coasteering, climbing, archery tag, bushcraft, paddlesports, crab fishing, waterpark, bonfire, night hiking and slip ‘n slide!
All the students had a fantastic week finishing the year with this wonderful shared experience.