Children from Nova Primary, Ravensthorpe Primary and Thorpe Primary Academies took part in action-packed residential school camps delivered by Fenland Adventure.

Fenland Adventure says increasing financial pressures are making outdoor residential experiences less accessible for many families. Their school camps are designed as a cost-effective solution to ensure more children can benefit from outdoor education opportunities.

“Year on year, the number of children taking part in our school camps more than doubles,” said Matthew Lea. “We are passionate about creating a pathway for every child to experience outdoor learning and adventure.”

The camps are designed to combine adventure with personal development, encouraging children to step outside their comfort zones while learning valuable life skills in the outdoors.

Activities included archery, bushcraft, chariot building, climbing, target shooting, and team challenges, all aimed at developing communication, resilience, and collaboration.

Evening activities included a water slide, campfire, and marshmallow roasting, creating memorable experiences for pupils away from the classroom environment.

Matthew said: “Our school camps offer far more than just outdoor activities. Children develop essential life skills by building independence, taking responsibility for their personal belongings, and working together as part of a team. Spending a night away helps children to grow in self-confidence, communication, and social skills while creating lasting memories with their friends.”

The first day of camp sees children settling into their tents and preparing for a series of outdoor activity sessions before enjoying dinner and evening entertainment.

Matthew added: “One of my favourite parts of the camp is seeing the children arrive full of excitement as they settle into their tents and begin their adventure together.”

Research continues to highlight the positive impact outdoor learning has on young people:

• 92% of pupils said they felt happier and healthier when learning outdoors.
• 92% of teachers reported pupils were more engaged with learning outdoors.
• 85% of schools saw a positive impact on behaviour through outdoor learning.

The camps will also provide excellent opportunities for photography and filming, capturing pupils developing confidence, teamwork, and independence in a fun and supportive environment.

Mr Daniel Saull, Head Teacher from Nova Primary Academy said: “Outdoor learning plays a hugely important role in children’s development. Experiences like these help pupils grow in confidence, independence and resilience while creating memories they will carry with them for years to come. At Nova Primary, we are passionate about providing opportunities that go beyond the classroom. These camps allow children to challenge themselves, develop teamwork skills and experience the benefits of learning in the outdoors.”

Mrs Emma Ward from Ravensthorpe Primary Academy said: “For many children, this may be their first residential experience away from home. Watching them support one another, try new activities and grow in self-belief is incredibly rewarding.”

Mr Jamie Parkhouse from Thorpe Primary Academy said: “We know that children learn in many different ways, and outdoor education provides an environment where so many pupils thrive. The excitement, engagement and sense of achievement these experiences create are invaluable. We have seen this already with our recently launched outdoor learning space.”