PGL has launched SEND Inclusive Adventures, designed to make outdoor learning and adventure accessible to children and young people with additional needs.
Last year’s Pearson report (featuring more than 14,000 voices from teachers, students and more) found that a major concern amongst teachers is that SEND needs are one of the highest barriers to learning for young people.
With that in mind, outdoor education provider PGL said it had designed Send Inclusive Adventures, a new programme specifically catered to children with additional needs.
“At PGL we firmly believe that outdoor adventure is for everyone,” said Michelle Evans, director of product & marketing at PGL Beyond. ”We are committed to unlocking the potential in all young people so that they have the same opportunities to explore, discover and grow.”
Tailored trips to suit needs
Flexibility has been prioritised when designing this programme, so every trip can be tailored to suit the specific needs of individual groups. Schools booking a SEND Inclusive Adventure can expect access to dedicated SEND and ASN advisors, specialist equipment, quieter meal and shop times, and accessible accommodation.
Activities take place in smaller groups and include adapted versions of PGL favourites, including archery, climbing, giant swing and raft building. Itinerary timings are flexible to accommodate breaks and longer transitions.
“Every child is an individual, so flexibility is essential when supporting pupils with special educational needs,” said Nancy O’Regan, COO for education at Aspris. She welcomes the focus from PGL on making outdoor activities accessible, to give “every young person the chance to build confidence and make real progress.”
Consulting and collaborating with SEND experts
When creating the programme, PGL Collaborated with Aspris and Unity Multi Academy Trusts, organisations that focus on specialist education care for children and young people with learning needs and disabilities.
“Having an offering that can really be bespoke and individualised to the needs of our pupils is really beneficial and supportive and allows us to consider residentials in a way we didn’t think was possible.”
Nancy O’Regan, COO for education at Aspris
PGL also consulted the Bendrigg Trust, a residential activity centre for people with disabilities in Cumbria, which provided specialist training based on their extensive experience in adapted outdoor activities.
SEND Inclusive Adventures are available to book now and will be in place from this summer.
For more information go to schoolsandgroups.pgl.co.uk/inclusive-adventure.
