Outdoor Education

St Paul’s offers a number of opportunities for pupils to enrich their learning experience through outdoor education.  Learning outside the classroom has been proven to raise self-esteem, confidence, personal organisation and self-awareness and, of course, this can translate into better attainment at school. You can find dates for outdoor education activities below:

DofE

Year 12 Gold DofE practice 13th - 16th May 2025

Year 10 Silver DofE practice 19th - 21st May 2025 

Year 12 Gold DofE assessment 17th - 20th June 2025     

Year 10 SIlver DofE assessment 25th - 27th June 2025

Year 9 Bronze DofE assessment (cohort 1) 7th - 8th July 2025  

Year 9 Bronze DofE assessment (cohort 2) 14th-15th July 2025

Residentials

Year 7 Multi skills week 28th April - 2nd May 2025

Year 8 Bushcraft 11th - 13th June 2025

Duke of Edinburgh

Through the school pupils can participate in three progressive levels of the Duke of Edinburgh programmes which, when successfully completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award.  The DofE programme can start when a pupil is in Year 9 and the scheme comprises three sections volunteering, physical and skills. You can find more information about the programme here. 

Multi-Activity Residential

In year 7, pupils have the opportunity to attend a multi-activity residential in the Mendip Hills, staying together in a lodge. Activities include authentic caving, rock climbing, water sports, and bushcraft activities.

Bushcraft and future plans:

Year 8 pupils have the opportunity to attend a Bushcraft residential, camping at Boughton Woods, where they can participate in activities such as shelter building, cooking on fires and tool making.

An inhouse bushcraft programme is being built to give students the opportunity to gain a wide range of valuable life experiences and skills that go beyond the classroom. Here are some of the key life experiences they can gain:

1. Outdoor Skills: Bushcraft teaches practical outdoor skills such as shelter-building, fire-making, navigation, foraging, and wilderness survival. These skills can be useful in a variety of outdoor settings and emergency situations.
2. Self-Reliance: Bushcraft encourages self-reliance and independence. Students learn to solve problems, make decisions, and take care of themselves in the wilderness, fostering confidence and self-esteem.
3. Resilience: Facing challenges in the outdoors, including adverse weather conditions and limited resources, builds resilience. Students learn to adapt, persevere, and stay positive in difficult situations.
4. Teamwork: Many bushcraft activities require collaboration and teamwork. Students develop communication and cooperation skills as they work together to achieve common goals.
5. Nature Connection: Spending time in nature fosters a deeper connection to the environment. Students gain an appreciation for the natural world and learn about the importance of conservation.
6. Environmental Awareness: Bushcraft often emphasises Leave No Trace principles and environmental ethics. Students develop a sense of responsibility for protecting the environment and minimising their impact.
7. Problem-Solving: Bushcraft activities involve problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative solutions. Students learn to think on their feet and find innovative ways to overcome obstacles.
8. Safety Awareness: Learning about outdoor safety, including first aid and risk management, equips students with essential life skills that can be applied in everyday situations.
9. Cultural and Historical Insights: Some bushcraft techniques have deep cultural and historical roots. Students gain insights into the traditions and practices of different cultures and historical periods.
10. Confidence Building: Successfully mastering outdoor skills and facing challenges in the wilderness boosts self-confidence. Students gain a sense of achievement and personal growth.
11. Leadership Development: Bushcraft programs often provide opportunities for leadership roles. Students learn to lead by example, make decisions, and guide others in outdoor settings.
12. Respect for Resources: Bushcraft teaches the importance of responsible resource use. Students understand the value of natural materials and the need for sustainable practices.
13. Cultural Appreciation: Bushcraft can introduce students to indigenous knowledge and cultural practices related to survival and outdoor living.
14. Physical Fitness: Engaging in outdoor activities in bushcraft promotes physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
15. Lifelong Learning: Bushcraft fosters a love for lifelong learning. Students develop a curiosity about nature, survival, and outdoor skills that can continue throughout their lives.
16. Career Exploration: For some students, bushcraft can spark an interest in outdoor and environmental careers, such as wilderness guides, naturalists, or conservationists.