Outdoor Education

Our extensive Outdoor Education programme fosters self-reliance, teamwork, and leadership in every pupil, offering a diverse array of activities to inspire a lifelong love of the great outdoors. Most importantly, it is huge fun.

From the structured challenge of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), the independence of the Duke of Edinburgh Award to the variety of options for riding, sailing, paddle sport and scuba diving, pupils are encouraged to push beyond their comfort zones and discover what they are capable of.

CCF and Adventure

Our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) offers cadets from all year groups the opportunity to develop resilience, discipline and practical skills through fieldcraft, navigation, first aid and leadership training, all within a framework of camaraderie and service. Annual camps, adventurous training, and regular parades instil a strong sense of purpose and pride. The Army, Navy, Royal Air Force and Marines are all represented.

All pupils in the Under School (Years 9-11) have the opportunity to join the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards and our own non-uniformed programme of outdoor education called the Pioneers.

For Specialists (Sixth Form), participation is voluntary, but many pupils continue their engagement with the CCF and Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Adventure is a key part of school life. Whether hiking, climbing, kayaking or camping under the stars, our pupils are challenged, encouraged and inspired — learning lessons in leadership and self-belief that stay with them long after they return to the classroom.

There are a number of weekends each year designated as Activities Weekends, allowing up to two days for those activities requiring time for expeditions away from School.

Through a structured CCF programme of both military and adventurous training, cadets develop powers of leadership to promote the qualities of responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance, and perseverance.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a popular and rewarding route for pupils looking to test themselves in a different way. With bronze, silver and gold levels available, pupils complete volunteering, skills, physical activity and an expedition, gaining confidence, independence and a deeper connection to the natural world.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award aims to provide an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development for young people. The Award is valued by parents, university admissions tutors, employers, and others as it demonstrates that the holder possesses exceptional character qualities and perseverance.

Our own Pioneers programme develops outdoor skills such as navigation, conservation and campcraft, but in a non-uniformed setting.

Riding, sailing, paddle sports and SCUBA diving are also offered as part of our Outdoor Education programme.