Adventures & Activities

Pakeman Primary School students on their Outward Bound experience

Watch: Pakeman Primary School pupils interviewed about residential

2024-02-20T09:50:00+00:00

This moving video features interviews with children at Pakeman Primary School in north London about the impact the experience had on them. 

A young boy enjoys a zip wire at a Go Ape forest

Go Ape to open at Northamptonshire’s Salcey Forest

2024-02-14T11:49:00+00:00

School groups will be able to choose from two exciting high ropes courses including a stand-alone Treetop Adventure Plus course at the new location. 

Students listen to an instructor during a climb as part of Up at The O2 experience

Up at The O2: scaling new heights for an unforgettable experience

2024-02-05T09:28:00+00:00Sponsored by

What’s new for schools visiting Up at The O2 and how a climb can inspire your students. 

Kingswood

Resilience-building fencing sessions to be rolled out across Kingswood sites

2024-01-15T12:38:00+00:00

Outdoor education group, Inspiring Learning, has launched a new partnership with British Fencing to deliver fencing sessions across its 11 Kingswood sites which are designed specifically to build resilience among young people.

Mega SUP Fun at ASC Portsmouth

Make a splash with your class with these water sports experiences

2024-01-01T07:00:00+00:00

Here are a range of school-friendly experiences which let your pupils build confidence through fun and engaging water-based activities.

PGL

PGL unveils Breakthrough Fund to support schools with residential costs

2023-11-09T16:31:00+00:00

Outdoor adventure centre provider PGL will launch a Breakthrough Fund to give pupils the chance to benefit from residential outdoor learning trips, irrespective of their financial situation.

Go Ape

Go Ape: create an unforgettable school trip for your class

2023-10-11T09:35:00+01:00Sponsored by

Go Ape offers amazing learning outside the classroom experiences across the UK, from team building activities to exhilarating high ropes courses which are suitable for all ages and abilities.

A group of young people hold banners and flags supporting the Let Us Out campaign to make outdoor residentials part of the school curriculum

200 children summit mountains in call for curriculum changes

2023-10-10T11:12:00+01:00

More than 200 young people joined the Protest in the Peaks calling for outdoor residentials to be made part of the school curriculum. 

Crate stacking at the Caldecotte Xperience.

Case Study: building confidence on land and water

2023-05-15T13:01:00+01:00

New Bradwell School visited the Caldecotte Xperience in Milton Keynes for a programme of challenges and activities suited to all abilities, which included crate stacking, canoeing, climbing, abseiling, caving and bush craft.

Quick Jump is one of the many activities available at PGL’s newest site.

PGL transforms former police HQ into activity centre

2023-05-03T08:18:00+01:00

Students can stay at the converted police headquarters in North Yorkshire, reopened by education activity centre provider PGL. 

Child taking part in activity

Skern Lodge to continue offering stammer support on specialist residentials

2023-03-14T13:08:00+00:00

Outdoor education centre, Skern Lodge in north Devon is celebrating its 25th anniversary of helping to support pupils who stammer, through learning outside the classroom.

The Plotters' Forest at Raby Castle

Amazing adventure playgrounds to let children’s imaginations run wild

2023-02-21T12:12:00+00:00

Looking for places to let your pupils reap the benefits of outdoor play? We look at some exciting adventure playgrounds to inspire visits this year and beyond. 

Kingswood

Kingswood unveils ‘hardship fund’ to finance educational visits

2023-01-24T11:32:00+00:00

Outdoor residential provider Kingswood has launched a bursary to provide funded places on school trips for children from families who would not otherwise be able to cover costs.

Kingswood House School at Go Ape

How a chance meeting at the School Travel Awards led to a Go Ape adventure

2022-12-19T15:03:00+00:00

Deputy head Ian Mitchell was able to take a group of students to Go Ape - a visit that was offered to the school after winning the ‘My Best School Trip’ Award. 

YHA Wye Valley

YHA to inspire pupils with immersive nature experiences

2022-11-07T06:48:00+00:00

The ground-breaking Generation Green project, launched by YHA to connect young people with nature, has led to the introduction of two experiences which immerse pupils in the natural world.

Gripped, London

Exhilarating Gripped adventure park opens to pupils in London

2022-09-16T08:13:00+01:00

Aerial adventure park Gripped has opened in west London, taking students out of their comfort zone to zip, slide, jump and climb across 126 acres.

Weardale Adventure Centre

Weardale Adventure Centre invites teachers to learn more about new activities

2022-09-07T11:57:00+01:00

Staff at the Weardale Adventure Centre in County Durham are hosting two open days for teachers and school staff as it announces an expansion of activities. 

UKSA, Isle of Wight

‘Woodland and Waves’ residential programme launched on the Isle of Wight

2022-08-26T06:16:00+01:00

Pupils will be able to experience a variety of both land and water-based activities across two residential centres on the Isle of Wight, thanks to a new partnership between UKSA and Inspiring Learning.

Jump In Trampoline & Activity Park

Jump in to an end of term party with your pupils

2022-06-07T13:12:00+01:00

Trampoline and indoor activity park company Jump In has shared details of its end of term school party options to reward pupils for their hard work throughout the academic year. 

Ultimate Adventure Centre, Bideford, North Devon

Devon’s Ultimate Adventure Centre joins Inspiring Learning

2022-04-19T13:05:00+01:00

Outdoor education provider Inspiring Learning has announced that the Ultimate Adventure Centre (UAC) in Bideford has joined the group’s list of outdoor education campuses. 

Hobbledown Heath

Schools to be welcomed with animals at new Hobbledown Heath attraction

2022-03-24T16:47:00+00:00

Hobbledown Heath, a new indoor and outdoor adventure playground in London, will be opening its doors for school trips from June. 

Kingswood

Kingswood says now is the time for pupils to experience an adventure

2022-03-23T12:57:00+00:00Sponsored by

Activity provider and School Travel Awards winner Kingswood explains why now is the perfect moment to take learning outside the classroom.

The Towers, Wales

Active Learning Group plans new outdoor learning centre in Snowdonia

2022-02-28T15:11:00+00:00

Specialist education company Active Learning Group has announced its third centre, The Towers, which will offer a range of mountain-based activities and experiences for young people.

Hazard Alley, Milton Keynes

Safety Centre launches new learning zone for children

2022-01-21T11:07:00+00:00

The Safety Centre has unveiled a new learning zone to teach children about the risks and consequences of littering, graffiti and knife crime at its site in Milton Keynes.

PGL Pioneers programme

PGL launches ‘Pioneers’ programme for primary school pupils

2022-01-11T10:32:00+00:00

School activity and adventure provider PGL has unveiled its Pioneers programme for Years 3 and 4 pupils which has been specially created with younger children in mind to develop independence and build confidence. 

Residential activity

School tour operators and attractions share their hopes for the future

2021-11-23T12:02:00+00:00

We asked specialist residential centres, school tour operators and attractions what their hopes are for the future as the UK emerges from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mount Cook Adventure Centre

Mount Cook Adventure Centre on making the most of the school year ahead

2021-09-01T10:31:00+01:00Sponsored by

Let’s face it, 2020-2021 has been a hard time for residentials, for schools and residential centres. The good news is that many teachers are looking ahead to 2022-2023 and planning fantastic trips for their students.

Kingswood

​Summer residentials can help smooth the transition to secondary school

2021-07-19T09:20:00+01:00

A week away from home on a residential stay during the summer holidays could help children feel more confident about the prospect of transitioning from primary to secondary school in the autumn, says outdoor education provider Kingswood.

Green Park Activity Centre

New activities available for schools at Buckinghamshire’s Green Park Centre

2021-07-12T15:30:00+01:00

Schools will be able to try out new activities at Green Park Centre in Buckinghamshire which has been added to the Inspiring Learning portfolio. 

Mill on the Brue

Experiences to promote positive mental health among your pupils

2021-05-03T07:06:00+01:00

A selection of ideas to instil positive mental health and wellbeing among your students at a time when they may need it the most.

Kingswood

Education providers on why outdoor activities are key to reducing stress

2021-04-20T13:04:00+01:00

Outdoor adventure specialists, Inspiring Learning, are encouraging more children to engage in outdoor activities as a way of helping to reduce the nation’s rising stress levels.

Themed outdoor adventure game at Berkhamsted Castle

English Heritage sites to come alive with outdoor adventure games

2021-03-25T11:41:00+00:00

School groups can book to experience a new outside adventure game concept being launched this spring by The Escape Games Company in association with English Heritage. 

UKSA

“School trips should be allowed in the summer”, open letter to the Prime Minister states

2021-03-18T15:43:00+00:00

In the letter sent to the Prime Minister Boris Johnson, outdoor education experts, celebrities and others highlight the serious impact of the pandemic on the industry.

Shelter building at Camp Wilderness

Explorer Ed Stafford on the importance of adventure for children’s self-development

2021-03-08T14:58:00+00:00

British explorer Ed Stafford has spoken about why it is vital that children experience adventure outdoors and reflects on his own school trips as a youngster. 

Log cabin residential at High Ashhurst

Plans set out to safely restart overnight educational visits

2021-02-15T16:33:00+00:00

Overnight UK trips should be able to resume after Easter and international travel should follow in the 2021/22 school year - that’s the message from the outdoor education and school travel sector. 

Cumulus Outdoors

Cumulus Outdoors on how they have adapted to support schools throughout the pandemic

2021-02-08T15:16:00+00:00

Activity providers, like Cumulus Outdoors and many others, have had to adapt to changing government advice at short notice. Director of the provider, Tom Campbell-Hill, shares their approach and plans for this year.

Weardale Adventure Centre's video about the impact of Covid-19

Watch: adventure centre’s poignant video highlights devastating impact of Covid-19

2020-12-29T12:25:00+00:00

Weardale Adventure Centre in Cumbria has created a video to show how the outdoor education sector has been affected by the pandemic. 

UK Sailing Academy (UKSA) in Cowes

The importance of outdoor education and why we must have a plan for reopening

2020-12-21T12:30:00+00:00

The CEO of the UK Sailing Academy (UKSA), Ben Willows, writes about the impact of the ban on residentials and why it’s crucial there is a plan for reopening.

Field Studies Council Adventure at Castle Head in Cumbria

“Support our sector or face a lost generation of learners” says the Field Studies Council

2020-10-29T12:18:00+00:00

The Field Studies Council (FSC) has said that thousands of students could become part of a lost generation of learners unless England and Wales follow Scotland’s lead in financially supporting outdoor learning centres.

Kingswood

Kingswood activity centres to offer adventure days for schools

2020-10-27T12:57:00+00:00

Kingswood is welcoming schools back to its residential centres for day trips, meaning pupils can still get all the benefits of an overnighter in one day.

School children on a set of high ropes

Petition puts pressure on government to reconsider schools residentials ban

2020-08-10T12:19:00+01:00

An online petition is calling for teachers and school trip providers’ support to put pressure on the Government to allow residentials to restart. 

YHA trip

YHA wants “young people safely back outside & connected to nature”

2020-08-06T14:44:00+01:00

Anita Kerwin-Nye, head of strategy and engagement at the YHA, has said she wants more children back outside learning, as the charity prepares to reopen five sites later this year.

Essex Outdoors

How Essex Outdoors can help with your adventures

2020-04-17T10:22:00+01:00Sponsored by

Essex Outdoors has been offering pupils an activity-fuelled escape from the classroom for more than 50 years, remaining popular with teachers across the UK. Here’s how the team can offer you an exhilarating school trip. 

BeVenturesome's #AdventureAtHome

BeVenturesome encourages children to #AdventureAtHome

2020-04-06T14:47:00+01:00

BeVenturesome, a company based in Swanage that strives to get children learning outside the classroom, has launched its #AdventureAtHome campaign to keep children active and engaged while indoors.

Adventure Parc Snowdonia

Nature-inspired opportunities at Adventure Parc Snowdonia

2020-04-01T11:31:00+01:00Sponsored by

An award-winning adventure hub in North Wales where getting stuck into new activities and challenges helps students to develop essential life skills.

Go Ape

School trips up for grabs with Go Ape’s adventure stories competition

2020-03-11T12:24:00+00:00

Pupils can now enter Go Ape’s annual Adventure Stories Competition, which encourages children to get creative and put their skills to the test in a writing and drawing contest, with prizes up for grabs.

BeWILDerwood Cheshire

BeWILDerwood to open in Cheshire

2020-02-02T14:34:00+00:00

The attraction, inspired by the children’s books of the same name, is planning to open its gates on 18th July in south Cheshire, offering pupils an ‘imaginative and adventurous’ day out.

Zip World Fforest Tree Hoppers

Children can explore natural surroundings with Zip World’s new programme

2020-01-30T11:27:00+00:00

Children and teachers can escape the classroom and bring lessons outside with the launch of Zip World’s ‘Gravity in Geography’. 

Weardale Adventure Centre

Pushing pupils to the limit: Weardale Adventure Centre

2019-12-19T09:30:00+00:00

Welcoming both day visitors and residential guests, Weardale Adventure Centre in the North Pennines offers a personal service from the moment a teacher first makes contact, to arriving at the centre.

Bohunt School's Duke of Edinburgh expedition

Case Study: Learning life lessons on Duke of Edinburgh expedition

2019-10-22T15:52:00+01:00

George Peters, outdoor education and Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) coordinator at Bohunt School Wokingham reports back on the Bronze expedition.

Alan Hinkes outside YHA Borrowdale

Interview: Alan Hinkes OBE on the huge positives that come with outdoor learning

2019-10-08T13:42:00+01:00

STO’s Harry Rogers speaks to mountaineer Alan Hinkes OBE about his work with the YHA and how taking children away from the classroom can have such a positive impact on their wellbeing.

The Wave, Bristol

School packages at the UK’s first inland surfing lake

2019-10-08T13:00:00+01:00

Workshops, surf lessons and activities are now available to book at The Wave attraction soon opening in Bristol. 

Children from Lyndhurst Primary School at Go Ape

Pupils earn a treetop adventure after a chance meeting at the School Travel Awards

2019-07-25T14:38:00+01:00

Pupils from Lyndhurst Primary School in Camberwell were gifted an adventure-packed day out at Go Ape after one of its teachers met a Go Ape director at last year’s School Travel Awards.

Essex Outdoors

Action-packed adventures guaranteed with Essex Outdoors

2019-07-19T00:00:00+01:00Sponsored by

Essex Outdoors prides itself on making sure that all its school groups have amazing experiences and develop life-long memories whilst staying at its centres. 

Go Ape creative competition winner

Schoolchildren win Go Ape prizes for getting creative with adventures

2019-07-12T13:23:00+01:00

Gledhow Primary School staff and classmates at the presentation of Rory’s prize for Go Ape’s Let’s Get Creative competition.

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience

New Crystal Maze Live Experience packages now available for schools

2019-06-26T13:04:00+01:00

School pupils are now able to take part in The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience, putting their mental and physical skills to the test.

Kids canoeing

Impact of “progressive” school trips highlighted at EVC conference

2019-06-19T11:20:00+01:00

Progressive and multiple trips have the biggest effect on children’s learning and development, charity leader Anita Kerwin-Nye told educational visit coordinators at the event.

Kingswood

Kingswood team leader on how residentials can help the Primary-Secondary transition

2019-04-19T09:08:00+01:00

David Czerwinski, schools programmes team leader at outdoor residential and activity provider, Kingswood on how to ease the pressure with residentials. 

Go Ape Junior course

Win prizes for your school with Go Ape's writing competition

2019-03-18T12:04:00+00:00

Go Ape is encouraging schools to get creative in and outside the classroom by entering its writing and drawing competition.

Rock UK's Summit Centre

New Rock UK centre opened by Prince of Wales

2019-03-06T10:13:00+00:00

Rock UK’s Summit Centre in Wales was officially opened by His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales.

Two girls on a Field Studies Council Adventure at Castle Head in Cumbria

FSC to run new Adventure Residentials in 2019 for Primary schools

2019-02-20T08:00:00+00:00

Selected Field Studies Council (FSC) centres are offering Primary schools the chance to give their pupils a wild adventure, in real environments, this year on its new residential activity school trips.

Climbing trees

DfE launches Activities Passport to inspire pupils and boost resilience

2019-01-07T10:57:00+00:00

The Department for Education has revealed further details of its Activities Passport. 

Inspire outdoor learning on these camping residential trips

Inspire outdoor learning on these camping residential trips

2018-12-24T11:01:00+00:00

Here are a selection of camping residential trips that you could take your class on in the UK.

One school’s adventures at Oaker Wood

Case Study: One school’s adventures at Oaker Wood

2018-12-19T11:00:00+00:00

We hear from Wyche CE Primary School on their trip to Herefordshire residential centre, Oaker Wood.

Our Lady’s Catholic High School water activity

Reaching their potential: Outward Bound Trust

2018-12-17T15:25:00+00:00

Our Lady’s Catholic High School in Preston sent a group of Year 9 pupils on a residential to the Outward Bound Trust’s outdoor education centre.

Marine Conservation Society

5 expeditions to take school groups on

2018-11-22T11:08:00+00:00

We look at 5 school expeditions that will leave a lasting impression on your students.

Government aims to get children more active

Government plans revealed to get more children outdoors

2018-11-22T10:26:00+00:00

The Department for Education’s plans to encourage more schools to get children more active hit the headlines today, with the i newspaper leading with the story on its front page.

The Adventure Effect

Video: Campaign launched by YHA to inspire outdoor adventures among children

2018-11-13T10:37:00+00:00

The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) has revealed its new campaign, The Adventure Effect, which aims to get more young people experiencing the benefits of the outdoors.

Clip 'n Climb Wicksteed Park

Wicksteed Park encourages activeness with new climbing attraction

2018-11-06T10:41:00+00:00

Wicksteed Park in Kettering is launching a new climbing venue

Students enjoying water sports

Grant helps hundreds of children experience water sports

2018-10-30T10:39:00+00:00

Pupils from a school in eastern England enjoyed new experiences in the outdoors thanks to a grant from the ‘#itsgreatoutthere’ initiative.

Computing

5 ways to take computing outside the classroom

2018-10-25T14:01:00+01:00

We look at five school trip ideas to teach children about computers, technology, and cyber safety.

Stamford Welland Academy school trip to Aberdovey outdoor education centre

Leaps and Bounds: Outward Bound Trust

2018-10-18T16:05:00+01:00

A “wild camp”, cooking over fire, using axes to chop wood and a veto on mobile phones, enabled a group of students to connect with nature and each other.

Treetop Nets

Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets reach school visit milestone

2018-10-17T10:54:00+01:00

Northern outdoor attractions Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets are celebrating a bumper year for schools. 

STOAwards

School Travel Awards finalists revealed

2018-10-10T09:20:00+01:00

Find out who the finalists are for this year’s School Travel Awards, ahead of the ceremony in November.

STA Travel Competition

Win £10,000 on a school trip with STA Travel

2018-09-20T16:21:41+01:00

Teachers booking a trip with STA Travel Education can enter a competition to win £10,000 for their next excursion.

Water-based activity

How to organise a water-based trip

2018-09-12T16:04:00+01:00

Annie-May Roberts, director of First Wave Adventures, tells STO how beneficial water-based school trips are, and what you need to do to organise a good one.

WWT

WWT Wetland Centres launches resources for planning school trips

2018-08-31T09:37:00+01:00

A new resource to help teachers plan learning outside the classroom has been revealed by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT).

Go Ape Nets Kingdom

Students to experience new heights at Go Ape’s Sherwood Pines

2018-08-28T12:11:00+01:00

Go Ape has just opened a new adventure course, Nets Kingdom, at its Sherwood attraction which can be experienced on an educational visit.

Literacy linked trips

Embracing Literacy and Literature through school travel

2018-08-21T15:45:00+01:00

With International Literacy Day coming up on 8th September, we look at a selection of locations and attractions offering English and Literature links.

Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction

New Chaucer-themed workshop at Canterbury Tales attraction

2018-08-17T09:51:58+01:00

The Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction is launching a new workshop to coincide with its education day this autumn.

Launch of the gaming activity%2C Starlink.

KidZania launches educational solar system gaming activity

2018-08-14T14:57:00+01:00

KidZania London will be launching a new Starlink Space Station gaming activity in partnership with technology company, Ubisoft, to help teach children in Key Stages 2 and 3 all about the solar system and space.

VisitScotland

VisitScotland reveals new literature linked trail

2018-08-13T10:05:00+01:00

School groups visiting Scotland can now enjoy a trail which includes an array of fairy-tale and storybook features, tying in with Literacy studies.

Royal Albert Hall

Primary ideas for taking Music outside the classroom

2018-08-07T14:26:58+01:00

We round up a selection of school trips to music themed attractions that offer educational benefits to visiting students.

St Cuthbert's CE Primary School

Case Study: Studfold Walks and Trails

2018-08-01T12:37:01+01:00

Counting rabbits, navigating a maze and building a den were all part of a day of fun, fresh air and adventure enjoyed by a group of pupils from North Yorkshire.

Beamish The Living Museum of the North

Beamish Museum opens new historical attraction

2018-07-30T10:56:24+01:00

The ‘Remaking Beamish’ project has seen the opening of its first attraction, Joe the Quilter’s cottage, at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North in County Durham, ready for school visits.

Inner Hebrides

Celebrities recall their school trips memories

2018-07-18T12:43:31+01:00

We asked a number of celebrities to tell us about their most memorable school trip experiences, from looking for toads, to Scottish adventures.

KidZania

KidZania teams up with Nintendo Labo for new play-based creative fun workshops

2018-07-16T12:32:00+01:00

The interactive indoor city ‘run by kids’ has teamed up with Nintendo to launch a new play-based educational activity using the Japanese company’s Labo platform.

Wooden Eskimo googles Credit Science Museum Group Collection

Science Museum to host educational exhibition about the Sun

2018-07-12T12:38:14+01:00

The new display, due to open in October, will invite pupils to learn about the power of the Sun and its role in the solar system.

Kentwell Hall

Tudor days and history events revealed for Kentwell Hall

2018-07-11T14:03:36+01:00

The stately home in Sudbury has announced a host of educational days in the new school year including a history re-creation and Tudor-specific events.

Science Museum

Openings to look forward to in the new school year

2018-07-04T11:02:00+01:00

We take a look at new school workshops, launches and trips to get you in the planning mood for September.

Blue Bell Hill Primary School

STO accompanies Primary school to The London Bridge Experience

2018-07-02T14:19:11+01:00

STO’s Laura Sexton reviews Blue Bell Hill Primary School’s trip to the London Bridge Experience & London Tombs.

Making the most of the weather

School trips to make the most of the weather

2018-06-26T14:01:13+01:00

We round up school trip ideas to enjoy the summer term and beautiful weather, both in the UK and abroad.

Rock UK

Rock UK opens the doors to its newest centre

2018-06-25T16:09:00+01:00

Rock UK’s Summit Centre has welcomed the first residential group to its redeveloped activity centre in the South Wales valleys.

Zoo Quest

Chessington launches new zoo trail for schools

2018-06-25T15:14:14+01:00

Chessington World of Adventures in Surrey has revealed its latest resource, which takes pupils on an exploration trail around the attraction.

Eden Project

Eden Project expeditions available with NST

2018-06-22T10:54:41+01:00

Teachers considering a school trip to the Eden Project in Cornwall might like to book with school travel provider NST, which runs special tribe and rainforest themed workshops.

The Real Mary Kings Close

8 fun days out for Key Stage 1 and 2

2018-06-22T10:10:46+01:00

We round up some day trip attractions that are guaranteed to give your students a fun day out.

Wookey Hole show cave

Caving experience added to Wookey Hole educational programme

2018-06-18T12:26:37+01:00

Wild Wookey is a new physical adventure experience, suitable for school groups at Wookey Hole Caves.

Outward Bound Trust

Teacher Talk: The World’s A Classroom

2018-06-05T17:09:00+01:00

Jon Clarke, shadow headteacher at Walsall Academy in Bloxwich, on Everest, Ethiopia and breaking down barriers. 

Creative arts

How the creative arts can be explored on a school trip

2018-06-05T13:57:00+01:00

We round up some trip ideas linking to creative subjects and look at why they are so crucial for education.

KidZania London

KidZania events announced for the next school year, plus early booking discounts

2018-06-01T09:03:02+01:00

Those planning ahead to September can take advantage of KidZania’s offering, with details of its upcoming events already announced.

YHA

Making the most of your school trip

2018-05-29T11:10:58+01:00

Jamie Walls, Product Development Manager of Youth Hostel Association (YHA) shares with us his top tips for getting the most out of your next school trip.

Outdoor learning

Exams put outdoor learning at risk, says Project Dirt

2018-05-23T14:01:29+01:00

A new report by Project Dirt has revealed that outdoor learning is being cut back due to the pressures of testing and academic studies.

Outdoor Classroom Day

School playtime expert urges teachers to look beyond classroom

2018-05-21T10:07:02+01:00

Last Thursday was Outdoor Classroom Day, which saw more than 1.7 million children playing and learning outdoors worldwide.

Archery session at Mount Cook

Experiencing Roman life: Mount Cook

2018-05-03T15:10:00+01:00

Pupils from Middleton Community Primary School, in Derbyshire, were transported 2,000 years into the past with an immersive Roman residential experience at Mount Cook Adventure Centre. 

Developing English language

Developing English language and communication in Primary school children

2018-05-03T10:41:21+01:00

We look at ways to develop spoken and written English in Primary aged pupils through learning outside the classroom.

Winchester Science Centre

Winchester Science Centre launches STEM school trips

2018-05-02T10:49:00+01:00

From September, school children are invited to embrace Science and take a guided ‘mission through space’ as part of Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium’s new STEM experience.

Pupil Ruby Edwards on the zip wire

Lessons in laughter: Yenworthy Lodge

2018-05-01T15:16:00+01:00

In Year 6, children from Harwell Primary School have a week’s residential stay at Yenworthy Lodge, an outdoor activities centre set in six acres of woodland within the Exmoor National Park in Devon.

Kidzania

Kidzania launches new library career activity

2018-05-01T11:55:00+01:00

The ‘indoor city run by kids’ Kidzania in London has launched several new activities including a library and a deli food activity.

Credit YHA

YHA offers selection of packages for schools

2018-04-25T10:54:00+01:00

The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) has a variety of hostels across the UK and provides different packages for outdoor learning experiences.

Circle of Rediscovery

Circle of Life Rediscovery offers outdoor learning sessions for teachers

2018-04-25T10:45:23+01:00

The outdoor learning organisation has a number of teacher and educational leader-based events coming up this year, which provide those with the skills to carry out good LOtC practise with their schools.

Go Ape

Go Ape offers free forest school learning resources

2018-04-24T10:32:00+01:00

The treetop climbing and activity organisation offers plenty for school groups including forest school learning packs and curriculum linked resources.

Rooftop Rider Zip Wire

Mount Cook to open new rooftop zip wire

2018-04-23T12:17:00+01:00

Mount Cook Adventure Centre, a centre for activity trips and residentials, has unveiled Derbyshire’s first rooftop zip wire which will officially open on 7th May.

Artist impression of Neuron Pod

Works begins on new Science learning centre in London

2018-04-20T12:10:00+01:00

A new learning centre is now under construction in London’s East End which aims to encourage schools to enter careers in Science.

Kingswood

Kingswood expands offering with improved centre

2018-04-16T11:32:00+01:00

Residential organisation, Kingswood, has revealed its £1million investment in Grosvenor Hall adventure centre in Ashford, Kent.

National Experience Week

Five valuable experiences gained from school trips

2018-04-10T14:13:00+01:00

To mark National Experience Week this week, we take a look at some of the most treasured experiences school pupils can take away from school travel.

National Marine Aquarium

New boat trips to allow pupils to explore Plymouth Sound

2018-04-09T11:26:00+01:00

The National Marine Aquarium has announced it will be offering educational boat trips to explore the Plymouth Sound from this month.

SEA LIFE Blackpool

SEA LIFE Blackpool launches turtle conservation area

2018-04-04T11:03:00+01:00

The Merlin attraction has now opened its doors to its new turtle rescue zone which allows visitors to learn about conservation.

Miniland

Q&A with LEGOLAND Windsor Resort

2018-04-04T10:14:16+01:00

STO talks to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort’s schools executive, Jamie Lawrence about what’s new and on offer for schools visiting the park this year.

Wicker Man

Wicker Man ride opens at Alton Towers Resort

2018-03-27T12:44:00+01:00

The ride, based on the film by the same name, has now opened at the Staffordshire theme park.

Autism Awareness Week

Five autism-friendly school trip ideas

2018-03-27T10:40:48+01:00

To mark Autism Awareness Week, we’ve rounded up some attractions which cater for children with autism to make your next trip inclusive for all.

Kingswood

Kingswood campaigns for water sports safety

2018-03-26T17:06:17+01:00

The outdoor education provider has partnered with the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS UK) as part of its ongoing commitment to water safety.

Ultimate School Trip

Winning schools revealed for Jet2holidays’ Ultimate School Trip

2018-03-26T10:36:00+01:00

Nine schools have secured a place on Jet2holidays’ Ultimate School Trip to Sol Katmandu Park & Resort in Majorca, after winning the nationwide competition.

Summit Centre

Rock UK opens new adventure centre in South Wales

2018-03-23T10:20:00+00:00

This summer, Rock UK Adventure Centres will open its brand new outdoor activity centre in Wales, taking its total number of centres up to four.

The Big Pedal

The Big Pedal to encourage outdoor travel

2018-03-20T11:52:00+00:00

More than 1,000 schools and 400,000 pupils are taking on the challenge of ‘Around the world in 10 days’, as part of the charity Sustrans’ Big Pedal 2018.

World Rugby Museum

Teaching Physical Education beyond the classroom

2018-03-20T11:09:00+00:00

School Travel Organiser looks at different ways to get pupils interested in Physical Education, from specialist museums to sporting tours.

Celtic Harmony

CLOtC and Celtic Harmony to provide LOtC course for teachers

2018-03-19T12:24:42+00:00

A new collaboration between educational charity Celtic Harmony and The Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (CLOtC) has been announced and will provide a new course for teachers.

ridgwater %26 Taunton College%E2%80%99s visit to Morocco

Case Study: Morocco

2018-03-14T20:37:15+00:00

Meeting Berber people and hiking were on the agenda for Bridgwater & Taunton College’s visit to Morocco.

British Airways i360 school trip

Sky-high education: British Airways i360

2018-03-13T14:45:00+00:00

A large group of high-flying youngsters enjoyed an unforgettable trip that gave them a birds’ eye view of their home city.

Legoland Windsor

Newest LEGOLAND® Windsor attractions open to visitors

2018-03-13T09:44:06+00:00

Three new features, each linked to various curriculum subjects, have opened at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort.

The Deep

Five attractions where schools can celebrate Science Week

2018-03-07T09:54:00+00:00

To mark Science Week this year, why not take your school on an interactive school trip? We round up some of the best attractions offering workshops and activities with a Science theme.

Clip 'n Climb Leeds

Climbing attraction suitable for schools to opens in Leeds

2018-03-07T09:42:00+00:00

A year in the making, Clip ’n Climb Leeds will open on 26th May and will boast 32 individual climbs making it the biggest in the North.

Southern Transit

Bus company launches free travel campaign for schools

2018-03-06T14:27:00+00:00

A Sussex bus and coach business is offering schools the opportunity to win free transport for educational trips, in response to what’s described as the ‘county’s ongoing education funding crisis’.

Children in the snow

Headteacher encourages families to embrace snow days

2018-03-02T16:23:00+00:00

A leading headteacher is encouraging parents to keep their children at home for snow days – to build special memories that are ‘far more valuable’ than anything that can be learned at school.

Credit Conway Centres

School residential a success despite heavy snowfall

2018-03-02T14:44:27+00:00

Residential organisation, Conway Centres, has revealed images of a recent school trip which took place during the 'beast from the east' as it's becoming known.

Dippy at Dorset County Museum

Follow Dippy the Diplodocus as he tours the UK

2018-02-27T12:25:00+00:00

Once the centre piece at London’s Natural History Museum, Dippy, a huge diplodocus skeleton, is currently visiting venues across the UK.

Wild Learning Centre

Learning centre and zoo ‘walkshops’ new for Chessington

2018-02-19T11:24:03+00:00

Chessington World of Adventures Resort in Surrey will open a new Wild Learning Centre this year, where pupils can experience hands-on activities supporting the national curriculum.

Artist impression of the transformation at NRM

Wonderlab to be opened at National Railway Museum

2018-02-15T12:21:00+00:00

The National Railway Museum in York has revealed its plans to ignite young minds through the creation of an interactive engineering gallery called Wonderlab.

Abi Elphinstone

World Book Day series: Q&A with Abi Elphinstone

2018-02-13T15:54:18+00:00

To continue the run up to World Book Day, we speak to author Abi Elphinstone about her experiences as a children’s author and her memories of school travel.

The World of Beatrix Potter

Top ten places inspired by Literature

2018-02-09T10:26:06+00:00

With World Book Day edging closer, we suggest some school trip ideas to get pupils enthusiastic about reading and writing.

Predators at Longleat

Longleat’s Predators exhibition suitable for all Key Stages

2018-02-08T10:16:00+00:00

This year, Longleat in Wiltshire will be hosting a display of animatronic predators, including sharks, crocodiles and bears, which can be used to support the Science curriculum.

Duke of Edinburgh expeditions

Teacher Talk: Broaden their horizons

2018-02-07T16:59:00+00:00

Charlotte McNeela, who was a finalist for last year’s School Trip Champion Award, talks about why education outside the classroom helps with every aspect of education and development.  

Jonny Lambert

KidZania to celebrate World Book Day with activities and authors

2018-01-24T16:53:56+00:00

KidZania has partnered with the Little Tiger Group to deliver a celebration of reading, writing and books, coinciding with World Book Day.

Science Week

Science Week announced at the British Motor Museum

2018-01-24T10:53:46+00:00

Building on its education programme, the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire has announced the launch of a Science Week for schools during the spring term.

Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester

Merlin reveals new features at attractions in Manchester

2018-01-22T15:41:00+00:00

Merlin Entertainments has revealed details of two new features to launch at Sea Life Manchester and Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester, this year.

Poll reveals importance of outdoor education

Bohunt Education Trust poll highlights importance of outdoor education

2018-01-17T10:27:00+00:00

A survey commissioned by the Bohunt Education Trust (BET) has revealed that people want a greater focus on outdoor learning for schoolchildren.

A girl on a Go Ape Junior course

7 team building trips for Year 7 pupils

2018-01-11T12:07:00+00:00

Bridge the gap between unacquainted students by taking your new Year Sevens on a long or short term teambuilding trip.

Outside Classroom Day

Details for Outdoor Classroom Day revealed

2018-01-10T12:34:00+00:00

Outdoor Classroom Day, run by campaigners Dirt is Good and Learning Through Landscapes, will once again celebrate Learning Outside the Classroom and the effects it has on education.

Cadbury World

Cadbury World offers historical talk

2018-01-03T17:07:17+00:00

Children in Key Stage 1 and 2 are invited to learn about the history of chocolate through a talk called ‘Chocolate Through the Ages’ at Cadbury World.

Credit YHA

Campaign launched to promote equal opportunities for school trips

2017-12-19T15:20:00+00:00

A new campaign called Every Child Should has been launched in the UK and aims to promote making school trips, residentials and travel accessible to all children.

Paultons Family Theme Park

School trips 2018: what’s new?

2017-12-13T10:34:00+00:00

2018 will see a range of new workshops, learning spaces and educational events open up to schools. The launches span the age groups and subjects range from Maths to English. Here’s a round-up of all the new things you can expect from the field of learning outside the classroom (LOtC) next year.

LEGOLAND Miniland

New Geography curriculum links given the green light at LEGOLAND

2017-12-12T13:59:46+00:00

In 2018 LEGOLAND Windsor Resort will be opening its doors to both expanded and new attractions, which will feature iconic landmarks made of LEGO and tie in with the Geography curriculum.

KidZania

KidZania announces details on January school careers event

2017-12-06T14:04:41+00:00

KidZania London has revealed the launch of the 2018 Careers Fair, a special three-day event for children where industry professionals will run a series of talks providing valuable insight into a whole host of different careers.

The Mail Rail

Q&A with The Postal Museum

2017-12-06T10:49:00+00:00

The Postal Museum in London opened earlier this year; we talk to Sally Sculthorpe, the learning manager, about the appeal for school trips and what is on offer.

KidZania

KidZania launches cricket ground for kids

2017-12-04T10:50:00+00:00

KidZania in London has revealed a new facility for its young visitors in partnership with Middlesex Cricket, called ‘Lord’s Cricket Ground at KidZania’.

Fleet Air Arm Museum

Trips to get pupils into engineering

2017-12-01T09:53:00+00:00

A round-up of school trips to get Key Stage 2 to 5 pupils inspired by engineering.

Dick and Dom

Jet2 launches ‘Ultimate School Trip’ competition

2017-11-29T09:44:07+00:00

Schools across the UK have the chance to win a place for an entire class of nine to 13-year olds on what is described as the ‘Ultimate School Trip’ with Jet2holidays.

Credit%3A Gamelan Workshops and Sam Peach

Southbank Centre to offer musical workshop next year

2017-11-27T11:42:00+00:00

The Royal Festival Hall at the Southbank Centre in London will be offering schools a new music workshop from January 2018.

Tree Hoppers

Ten adventure experiences with educational benefits

2017-11-23T15:19:00+00:00

A selection of locations for school trips suitable for the adventurous, courageous and the brave.

Case Study: Rock UK, Frontier Centre, NorthamptonshireSchool: All Saints CE Primary School, Nuneaton, WarwickshireSubject: PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic education)Number of pupils: 40

Case Study: Rock UK

2017-11-21T15:46:29+00:00

A night walk, bush craft, and trying new foods were all part of a trip to Rock UK for All Saints CE Primary School pupils.

The Blackpool Tower

Primary and Secondary education available at The Blackpool Tower

2017-11-16T10:10:00+00:00

Earlier this year, The Blackpool Tower extended its schools programme, with more workshops and interactive sessions now available.

Theo Paphitis

KidZania Challenge to put enterprise on the school agenda

2017-11-14T16:39:05+00:00

Following the launch this weekend of the UK’s first entrepreneur festival for children held at KidZania, the attraction is inviting children to take part in a new KidZania Challenge, for Global Entrepreneur Week.

Twickenham Stadium

New rugby museum at Twickenham to offer education

2017-11-06T10:13:00+00:00

The newly relocated World Rugby Museum at Twickenham Stadium, in London, will open in February 2018 with a new educational offering.

Ski-ing

Eight tips for booking your first ski trip

2017-11-02T15:54:07+00:00

Select School Travel offers some advice to teachers and organisers planning their first school ski trip.

Carlisle Castle

English Heritage properties offer expert-led school visits

2017-11-01T10:09:55+00:00

A number of English Heritage properties now offer expert-led school visits linked with the curriculum.

Adventure Wonderland educational show

Adventure Wonderland offers new workshops for 2018

2017-10-30T15:00:17+00:00

The theme park, Adventure Wonderland, near Bournemouth will be introducing two new workshops to its educational programme next year.

Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum offers new workshops for Key Stage 2

2017-10-24T08:59:09+01:00

The Natural History Museum in London has recently launched a new workshop for Key Stage 2 and redeveloped another.

Parliament Week

KidZania to take part in Parliament Week

2017-10-18T11:31:02+01:00

The ‘indoor city run by kids’ will be taking part in Parliament Week on 14th , 15th and 16th November, by inviting children to partake in Parliament related activities.

Cadbury World

Cadbury World unveils new curriculum-linked talks

2017-10-10T13:58:00+01:00

Pupils visiting Cadbury World, in Birmingham, will see traditional chocolate making demonstrations on a self-guided tour of the Cadbury World attraction.

My Best School Trip Award

My Best School Trip finalists revealed

2017-10-09T14:26:00+01:00

Following a successful judging day held in London, five finalists have been selected for this year’s ‘My Best School Trip’ Award.

Artist impression of The Sill

YHA opens a new youth hostel

2017-09-29T14:58:41+01:00

YHA’s brand new flagship Youth Hostel in Northumberland National Park is now taking bookings.

Learning Away

Study reveals too many children miss out on residentials

2017-09-29T10:21:00+01:00

A recent study, carried out by Learning Away, has revealed that far too many children are missing out on potentially life-changing residential experiences.

%23WinterResidentials

Learning Away launches Winter Residentials campaign

2017-09-28T12:18:38+01:00

Campaigning group, Learning Away, has launched its new campaign, #WinterResidentials, which will encourage more life-changing experiences for young people.

The Rainforest Rangers Table

New underwater classroom opens at Sea Life Blackpool

2017-09-25T11:12:36+01:00

Sea Life Blackpool has unveiled a new underwater classroom, suitable for school visits, that provides students with the opportunity to learn about marine life first-hand.

Iceland

New tour operator offers teachers easy trip planning

2017-09-19T15:05:01+01:00

New tour operator, Glo-Ed, based in Oxford, launched earlier this year and offers schools itineraries around the world.

Preparing pupils for later life

Preparing pupils for later life

2017-09-15T09:57:27+01:00

We focus on some top trip ideas to help prepare pupils for later life including college, university and careers.

Drayton Manor Theme Park

Drayton Manor introduces new Key Stage 2 workshop

2017-09-11T14:45:05+01:00

Drayton Manor Theme Park in Tamworth is introducing a new workshop for visiting schools, which ties in with Science.

At-Bristol

At-Bristol to relaunch as ‘We The Curious’

2017-09-05T16:50:00+01:00

At-Bristol has announced that it will be undergoing a refurbishment and relaunching as ‘We The Curious’.

Redfield Edge Primary School Dino Day

Exhibition to coincide with Dinosaur Takeover at Bristol museum

2017-08-22T15:07:47+01:00

An exhibition that opened in June at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is now offering school workshops to accompany it as well as a Dinosaur Takeover in November.

PGL Bawdsey Manor

PGL centres to open in Suffolk and Yorkshire

2017-08-18T12:55:00+01:00

PGL is opening two new residential centres, PGL Bawdsey Manor in Suffolk and PGL Newby Wiske Hall in North Yorkshire.

Alton Towers

10 of the Best Cross Curricular Trips

2017-08-18T12:07:00+01:00

One trip, multiple subjects; where to go for a truly cross-curricular educational experience, from theme parks to museums.

Shakespeare's New Place

Explore Shakespeare’s New Place via new virtual app

2017-07-24T11:42:00+01:00

Shakespeare’s New Place is one of 12 locations that can be seen through a new phone app called England’s Historic Cities, which is described as an ‘augmented reality product.”

School pupils at Kidzania

Tackling PSHE: top attraction ideas

2017-07-21T12:19:00+01:00

STO takes a look at some school trip ideas for teachers to take their class on a PSHE trip.

Kirk Ella Primary School

Learning Away awards schools for residential experience

2017-07-18T16:20:00+01:00

Two schools have recently been recognised by Learning Away for providing their pupils with ‘Brilliant Residential’ experiences highlighting the importance of LOtC.

British Motor Museum

British Motor Museum launches new schools programme

2017-07-17T12:06:00+01:00

The series of new workshops and activities will tie in with the curriculum for the 2017/2018 academic year.

Tim Peake

Space Days available for schools at National Science and Media Museum

2017-07-13T15:58:27+01:00

The National Science and Media Museum has launched a new exhibition which features astronaut Tim Peake’s spacecraft.

Dippy%2C Natural History Museum

Dippy the dinosaur goes on tour

2017-07-13T12:28:00+01:00

With the new whale skeleton taking over at the Natural History Museum, the diplodocus skeleton, is off on tour.

Mr Broad accepting Chateau du Baffy prize

Winner of Select School Travel residential trip revealed

2017-07-12T16:29:42+01:00

A school in Welwyn in Hertfordshire has been revealed as the winner of a free residential trip to Chateau du Baffy, Normandy, run by Select School Travel.

The Bank of England Museum

Teaching children about money

2017-07-10T14:14:00+01:00

STO looks at cross-curricular school trips that teach children about money and budgeting.

Battlefield Live

Case study: Battlefield Live

2017-07-03T09:48:20+01:00

STO finds out about Bishop's Blue Coat CoE High School's annual trip to Battlefield Live in Knutsford.

Legoland Windsor

Legoland Windsor reveals details of 2018 school workshop

2017-06-30T14:30:07+01:00

Legoland Windsor has announced details of its newest school workshop which is expected to be available from next year.

Work on the Wild Side

Research focus: The Work on The Wild Side report

2017-06-30T10:43:00+01:00

STO looks into research that suggests that the UK’s leading schools place value on learning outside the classroom.

Treetop Trek

Manchester launches new Treetop Trek

2017-06-28T12:03:00+01:00

A new treetop adventure park at Heaton Park, Manchester, is now complete and ready to open to the public.

Dino Jaws at Life Science Centre

Dino Jaws exhibition opens at Life Science Centre

2017-06-26T12:13:00+01:00

A new display is now open at the Life Science Centre in Newcastle, which looks at dinosaur bones.

The Great Yorkshire Show

School trips to county shows

2017-06-21T09:45:56+01:00

STO looks at county shows around the country and what they offer visiting schools.

The York Dungeon

New Viking workshop at The York Dungeon

2017-06-16T09:49:28+01:00

The York Dungeon has launched a new workshop which ties in with the Drama curriculum.

School children at the Pit Stop at Kidzania London

Trips that harness play to educate

2017-06-15T10:32:00+01:00

An element of play can help to deepen pupils’ learning. So, why is it important and where can you take a school group to?

Winter Wonderland

School discounts for Manchester Winter Wonderland

2017-06-13T16:46:00+01:00

Manchester’s Christmas attraction, Winter Wonderland, will return again this year and will be offering special rates for schools.

Beamish Suffragette activity

Teaching children about voting, elections and politics

2017-06-13T10:50:00+01:00

There are several school trips available across the UK that are designed to bring politics to life.

East Ayrshire Council

A Q&A with... The East Ayrshire Council

2017-06-13T10:35:00+01:00

STO talks to Willie White, education officer for East Ayrshire Council (EAC) to find out why learning outside of the classroom is so important.

Iceland

Rayburn Tours launches new Geography trips to Iceland

2017-06-08T16:36:28+01:00

Tour operator, Rayburn Tours, is introducing new school trips to Iceland.