Dr Anne Hunt, CEO of the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (CLOtC), highlights some of the unique residentials available to schools today.
Residentials are a well-established tool for supporting many areas of the curriculum, including deep dives into specific subject areas, and in supporting personal development.
Most schools are familiar with residential visits that focus on the outdoors and adventurous activities and much has been written about them in the past.
However, there is a growing number of providers who are offering a more unique approach, blending great learning with their own distinctive setting, locations and heritage. So, we spoke to some of our LOtC Quality Badge holders to see how they are enhancing their learning offer with unusual overnight experiences, designed to inspire and engage students and staff alike.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham are currently offering two exciting residentials. ‘Crash Out on Cavalier’ is an overnight stay onboard the Royal Navy’s last remaining Second World War destroyer, HMS Cavalier. Sleeping onboard in real sailors’ bunks, students and their teachers get to experience life on board first-hand. Included in the experience is an exclusive tour of the ship and a programme of engaging activities.
For those schools with larger groups, the Historic Dockyard offers an overnight stay opportunity with a chance to explore the museum and galleries after hours. Each year, the ‘Sleepover in the Smithery’ programme links overnight stays to the touring exhibition being hosted in the Smithery.
The Science Museum is also hosting sleepovers like no other. Running on various dates from 16th May, ‘Astronights’ includes exciting science shows and hands-on workshops, as well as the chance to see the museum after dark. School groups can sleep under a plane, next to a satellite or in the world’s largest medical galleries. After a night in the galleries, they can enjoy a visit to the interactive Wonderlab gallery and a 3D screening in the IMAX cinema the next morning.
West Midlands Police Museum offers exclusive overnight use of the museum, for up to 50 young people. Visitors can sleep in a large group in the basement or in small groups (of three to four) in Victorian prison cells, and of course enjoy activities facilitated by the museum staff such as detective trails and code breaking.
Speaking about their experience, a teacher told us: “The exhibits and interactive sessions provided our students with a fascinating insight into the history and role of the police force. They were especially captivated by the forensics activity, which brought to life the importance of law enforcement and community safety.
“Our pupils left with a much greater understanding of the dedication and challenges faced by police officers, and many have expressed a keen interest in learning more about the profession. The visit has certainly inspired them and enriched their education in ways that go beyond the classroom.”
These and many other varied residential experiences provide children with unique opportunities to learn in diverse and dynamic environments. We hope that more of this full range of residential experiences will be used to support classroom teaching, enriching children’s lives and broadening their horizons.
Schools looking to enhance their learning outside the classroom programme can find out more about attractions offering residentials at www.lotc.org.uk.
