Are you looking for a new adventure to get your heart pumping and your adrenaline rushing? Look no further than an outdoor pursuits centre! These incredible destinations offer a wide range of exciting activities that are perfect for anyone looking to leave their comfort zone and experience the great outdoors. From white-water rafting and rock climbing, to zip-lining, mountain biking, and much more, there is something for everyone at an outdoor pursuits centre. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!
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1. Outdoor Activities for Individuals, Couples, and Families
Are you looking for an adventurous outdoor activity center that offers a wide range of activities for individuals, couples, and families? Look no further than Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre (LOPC)! Here, you can increase or improve your basic skills in a variety of activities and have fun at the same time. From multi-activity experiences to immersive experiences and proficiency-based courses, LOPC has options to suit everyone’s needs. These programmes integrate engaging themes and challenges, providing fast-paced creative alternative and inherently safe outdoor activities. LOPC offers something different that the whole team can enjoy and remember for a long time. Plus, no matter what the occasion, an LOPC Party could be just right for you and your guests!
In addition to offering exciting outdoor activities, LOPC also provides a range of different learning opportunities. Starting from key stage 1 up to higher education, LOPC offers courses that are perfect for educational trips. But here’s the best part – you can help LOPC build a new outdoor classroom and associated facilities! To support this project, the centre manager is cycling from Lands End to John O’ Groats to raise funds. Please help support this cause – every bit of support, no matter how small, will make a significant difference to the many communities that use the centre.
Looking for more adventure activities? Check out Adventures Wales! Located in Porthcawl, Wales, just a 20-minute drive from Cardiff or Swansea city centres, Adventures Wales offers a range of high-quality outdoor pursuits activities or adventure activities for family fun days, weekend breaks, instructional courses, team building, and school activity trips. And here’s the best part: all activities have been revised and adapted to follow UK COVID Care guidelines, ensuring your safety.
Adventures Wales is fortunate to be situated in one of the most amazing locations in Wales for outdoor adventure activities, with local beaches and the Brecon Beacons mountains on their doorstep. Whether you’re looking for stag weekend packages, hen weekend packages, or family activity days, Adventures Wales caters to every need. They also offer exciting adventure activities on both land and sea and are a fully licensed AALA activity centre. Plus, their activity day vouchers make a great present for any occasion!
From gorge scrambling to surf kayaking, zip sliding, quad biking, and more, Adventures Wales has it all. Don’t believe us? Check out the reviews from satisfied customers on their website. So why not book your adrenaline-fueled outdoor pursuits adventure today and experience all that Adventures Wales has to offer? With their recent accolade of being named Outdoor Company of the Year for 2022/23, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. [1][2]
2. Variety of Courses and Skill Improvement Opportunities
Outdoor Pursuits offers a diverse range of courses and skill improvement opportunities to its participants. Whether you’re interested in honing your leadership, teamwork, or environmental stewardship skills, there’s something for everyone. Students can push their limits both physically and mentally in a variety of natural settings, such as rugged New England outdoor and indoor rock climbing, backpacking, orienteering, and more.
The program emphasizes the importance of learning by doing and developing oneself and others through the outdoors. There are three seasons of offerings for all levels of participants, with each season providing a wide range of activities and skills to learn. The core program meets 6-8 hours a week and involves at least one weekend overnight trip and one weekend day trip each term. This program introduces participants to a variety of activities and skills, some of which are time-intensive in their setup, execution, and debrief.
For students who are more experienced in the outdoors, there’s a higher-level program that offers similar activities but at a more frequent and intense level. In this program, students may take 2-3 weekend trips with comp time during the week. Instructors at Outdoor Pursuits are qualified in each activity they undertake and are knowledgeable in backcountry emergency situations, water rescues, hypothermia, and many other hazards possible in remote locations.
As safety is a top priority, each student and their guardian must sign a form acknowledging the potential dangers associated with each activity. However, with knowledgeable instructors and receptive students, Outdoor Pursuits maintains high safety standards for all its activities. The mild weather and changing scenery of autumn provide excellent opportunities to explore, from backpacking in New England with its autumnal colours to spirited orienteering races.
In winter, Outdoor Pursuits takes outdoor activities to the next level with heartier and more intense expeditions. Participants can travel through wintry landscapes, such as New Hampshire’s White Mountains, by foot, Nordic skis, sled, or toboggan. They can develop skills related to comfortable living in cold weather conditions and savvy use of winter gear like snowshoes, crampons, and ice axes. In spring, participants can enjoy diverse outdoor activities, making for an exciting year-round program of learning and growth. [3][4]
3. Customizable Packages for Groups
Looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure for your group? Look no further than UGA Outdoor Recreation’s customizable packages! Whether you’re planning a team bonding experience, a birthday celebration, or just a fun day out with friends, UGA Outdoor Recreation has the perfect trip for you. With a variety of customizable options, you can choose the outdoor adventure that best suits your group’s needs and interests. From a Stand Up Paddle Board Day Trip for a small group to a multi-day backpacking expedition for larger groups, UGA Outdoor Recreation has everything you need to make your next outdoor adventure a success. Plus, all gear and equipment, transportation, and trip leader fees are included in the price, so there are no hidden costs to worry about. Book your trip today and let UGA Outdoor Recreation take care of all the details!
If you’re a student looking for an adventure, UAB Adventure Recreation has got you covered! With a wide range of trip options, there’s something for everyone, no matter your skill level or experience. From rafting down the Ocoee River to canoeing on the Cahaba River, UAB Adventure Recreation offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities that will help you get outside and explore the world around you. Plus, with all meals provided and experienced guides to ensure your safety, you can rest assured that you’ll have a fun and enjoyable experience. So why wait? Sign up for an upcoming trip today and discover all that UAB Adventure Recreation has to offer!
For the ultimate outdoor adventure, look no further than UAB Adventure Recreation’s all-inclusive guided trip to Yellowstone National Park. Spend 10 days exploring America’s first national park, home to some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, including Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You’ll have the opportunity to see wildlife up close and personal, including elk, buffalo, and antelope, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a grizzly or grey wolf. With all camping and park fees covered, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your time in the park. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Yellowstone National Park today and experience the trip of a lifetime! [5][6]
4. Safe and Challenging Outdoor Experiences
Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre offers thrilling outdoor activities for individuals, couples, families, and groups. Participants can choose from an extensive range of activities based on their skill level and interests. The center also offers proficiency-based courses and multi-activity experiences with engaging themes and challenges. They provide a fast-paced, creative, and safe environment for all team members. LOPC Parties are perfect for any occasion, regardless of age. The center offers learning opportunities for all age groups, ranging from key stage 1 to higher education. They are currently raising funds to build a new Outdoor Classroom and associated facilities, and everyone can contribute to this worthy cause, as every little bit counts!
University of Colorado Boulder’s Outdoor Pursuits provides an inclusive environment for students to experience the great outdoors and build their skills for various outdoor recreational activities. They promote environmental awareness and appreciation of nature, operating on the original homelands of the Ute Cheyenne Arapahoe and Shoshoni peoples. The center offers a 7000+ square foot climbing gym with a variety of bouldering and route climbing terrain for all skill levels. They also offer rentals for camping, backpacking, climbing, or winter activities, ensuring that exploring the outdoors isn’t limited to those who own the best equipment. The Challenge Course is an excellent tool for improving communication and problem-solving skills, getting to know each other, and exploring leadership styles. The center also helps students plan their next outdoor escapade, including route recommendations, meal planning, and more.
Both centers provide a variety of trips and courses located in and around their cities and throughout the state. The trips are designed with beginners in mind, providing new skills and allowing participants to be proficient when they head out with their friends or student organizations. Membership at the centers is required to participate in all trips and courses. Finally, the OutPost Blog is an excellent resource for students to express their favorite experiences with the outdoors, share their stories, and inspire others to challenge themselves. It features articles on the unique feelings of reaching the pinnacle of a 14,000+ foot mountain peak, choosing the right gear for a safe and exhilarating backcountry ski or snowboard trip, and persevering and pushing oneself while facing the toughest obstacles. [7][8]
5. Parties and Events for All Ages
Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre offers a variety of birthday party activities where guests can create fond memories of their special day. These activities are not your typical birthday party experience, offering something a little different. The parties are run by qualified instructors, and safety equipment is provided. Guests can choose from a range of activities, and the prices vary based on the number of guests. The minimum age for these activities is five years old, but some activities may have a higher recommended age based on the instructors’ experience. Guests need to sign a consent form, which must be brought on the day of the party.
For those interested in making their birthday or celebration more unique, Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre has a tailor-made package option, allowing guests to choose from a range of activities ideal for groups. The Centre can cater to any group size, offering activities such as stand-up paddleboard yoga, kayak hire, and medieval games using ancient weaponry. To participate in these activities, a consent form is required, and a 50% deposit for booking is necessary. The Centre also offers lunch ordering if you plan on visiting for more than one activity.
Another World in West Yorkshire is the ultimate outdoor adventure centre, catering to family and friends, corporate and work events, schools, stag and hen dos, and Christmas parties. Their range of activities is suited to groups of up to 200 people, offering bumper balls, grass sledging, paintball slingshots, and more. They pride themselves on creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where teams can enjoy a day or half-day of laughter-filled team-building activities.
In terms of prices and packages, Another World offers various packages depending on the length and activities chosen. These packages include a range of activities such as safe archery, sling shots, grass sledges, dirt scooters, and toboggans. Depending on the package, the cost ranges from £35 for a one-hour activity to £132 for three hours of activities. However, for larger groups or corporate events, Another World suggests contacting them for a bespoke package.
Overall, Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre and Another World offer unique and exciting activity options for parties and events for all ages. These are perfect for those wanting to step away from the standard birthday party experience or host a unique celebration. With qualified instructors and safety equipment provided, guests are sure to have a fun and memorable time. [9][10]
6. Outdoor Education for Various Levels
Outdoor education is a fantastic way to inspire and engage learners of all ages. For younger children, nature exploration activities can include bug hunting, pond dipping, or foraging for wild berries. These activities enhance personal and social development, deepen children’s relationships with nature, and raise attainment through better teaching and learning experiences. Parents and teachers can utilize school gardens, wildlife trails, parks, and forest reserves to bring the learning outside the classroom. These outdoor spaces foster a sense of place for children, making the importance of sustaining the environment more personal.
For older learners, outdoor education activities can offer a more challenging and adventurous experience. Activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, orienteering, and camping encourage personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. Outdoor education programs can be tailored to suit various levels, from beginner to advanced, so that everyone can participate and benefit according to their abilities. Additionally, outdoor education programs are increasingly being used to foster a sense of community in schools and to provide students with learning opportunities related to the environment.
Outdoor education programs have been shown to have a positive effect on the educational, physical, and emotional development of young people. For at-risk individuals, these programs can provide a positive and lasting impact on their lives. A study in California demonstrated that week-long residential outdoor education programs had a significant impact on the self-esteem, leadership, and problem-solving skills of at-risk sixth graders.
To fully benefit from outdoor education, however, it is crucial to overcome obstacles like cost, institutional barriers, and reluctance among teachers and parents. A way to circumvent these obstacles is to focus on activities and skill development using the real world as the performance arena. Educators can create opportunities for children to participate in their learning through outdoor education programs like intensive three-week backpacking courses, which would develop personal growth, community building, and environmental education.
In conclusion, outdoor education has diverse goals and practices but always involves learning about the outdoors. It can be an effective tool to enhance personal and social development, deepen relationships with nature, raise attainment, and foster a sense of community. Moreover, outdoor education provides opportunities for people of all ages to challenge themselves, develop leadership, and engage with the natural world. [11][12]
7. Fundraising for New Outdoor Classroom
Exciting news for PTO and PTA leaders out there! One of the best fundraising goals that you can set for your school is to build an outdoor learning space. With physical distancing challenges and a growing focus on green improvements, outdoor classrooms are having a moment. Research shows that when students interact with nature, their grades improved, their creative and problem-solving skills grew, and their physical and mental health improved. Moreover, teachers can expand the curriculum with lessons in reading, writing, scientific observations and social-emotional activities by connecting lessons with nature.
To create an outdoor classroom, you need to start with approval from administrators and buy-in from teachers. Develop a Green Team of students, teachers, administrators, parents, and volunteers who can help with the project. Invite PTA members and team with local agencies and organizations to provide resources and expertise. Conduct a school site investigation with your “Green Team” to map your school site and inventory plants and animals.
Select an outdoor classroom site that includes shady areas for classroom space and sunny areas for native plants to attract birds and butterflies. Ensure that your structure would be low-maintenance and able to withstand your region’s weather year-round. Choose natural wood or heavy plastic benches that are light enough to be moved when necessary. If you plan to build raised beds for garden projects, consider a compost area too.
Fundraising goals and transparency are essential for creating an outdoor classroom. Be transparent with families about the benefits of using outdoor spaces, how the costs break down, and show how much progress has been made. Set your fundraising goals and be creative with your fundraising ideas. You can ask for donations from local businesses such as building supplies, birdfeeders, and wood chips. Reach out to parents and community members to find volunteers who can assist with the project. Keep in mind that it may take longer than you originally thought, but the end result will be well worth it.
Creating an outdoor classroom is an excellent opportunity to give back to the community while offering students and teachers a new, exciting learning environment. With the right tools, resources, and fundraising skills, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor learning space for your school. Get started on your fundraising goals, and let the excitement grow! [13][14]
8. Urban Adventure at Essex Outdoors Harlow
Essex Outdoors Harlow offers an exciting range of activities for all ages to enjoy. As an oasis of urban adventure, this small and friendly site boasts one of the largest indoor climbing walls in the South East, providing climbers with over 100 routes of various levels of difficulty. The climbing shop stocks essential items for climbers, and there are accessible toilets, showers, and changing rooms available. The Lock café is perfect for those in need of a snack or drink, and lockers or storage space is provided for visitors while they are on-site.
Aside from climbing, Essex Outdoors Harlow provides access to tranquil waterways where visitors can learn to canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard. The site offers an urban version of coasteering known as ‘Bumble,’ which is a unique way of building confidence in and around water. For those who like to test their nerve, abseiling is a great activity that involves descending one of the exciting abseiling experiences while controlling your own descent.
If you’re looking for something less nerve-wracking, there are also many dry activities to choose from. The all-terrain boarding is a thrilling combination of snowboarding and off-road skateboarding that is perfect for building balance and coordination skills. Archery is a fun and competitive activity that is suitable for all abilities and helps to improve confidence and coordination skills. The bouldering wall is great for keeping fit and problem-solving, and the high ropes course is sure to get your blood pumping.
Essex Outdoors Harlow also offers specialist facilities and equipment for those with disabilities, making it an accessible adventure centre for everyone. With over 10 activities to choose from, it’s no wonder that 85% of visitors keep coming back. The centre offers developmental courses throughout the term, supporting specific subjects and day trips for schools, as well as DofE programs for youth groups. For individuals and families looking for thrilling courses and activities, Essex Outdoors Harlow is the perfect place to follow your passion and try something new. [15][16]
9. Specialist Equipment for People with Disabilities
Specialist equipment can make all the difference for people with disabilities when it comes to enjoying outdoor activities. This type of equipment includes everything from wheelchairs and mobility aids to assistive technology that helps with daily tasks. By providing access to this equipment, outdoor pursuits centres can help people with disabilities have a fuller, more independent life. Equipment can be acquired through local Health and Social Care Trusts, which offer assessments to determine the specific needs of each individual. This can include assistive technology for managing personal care, mobility aids, and adaptations to the home environment. To ensure that everyone gets a chance to enjoy the outdoors, outdoor pursuits centres can invest in this equipment or partner with local organizations to provide it to their clients.
One way that outdoor pursuits centres can encourage inclusivity is by offering a range of activities that cater to people with different disabilities. For example, Beitostølen Wellness Sports Centre in Norway offers a range of activities that can be adapted to an individual’s needs. They focus on opportunities rather than limitations and use specialized equipment that people can use in their own local environment. The centre offers training in adaptive sports, so that participants can maintain an active lifestyle even after leaving the centre. Similarly, in Finland, a centre is working to give people with disabilities and their families work and learning experience in the outdoors. By offering a range of activities and training, outdoor pursuits centres can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the benefits of being outdoors.
When it comes to specialist equipment, gear banks can be a great resource. These banks hold various outdoor gear specifically tailored to people with disabilities, such as kayaks, tents, and boating equipment. In Denmark, there are already 29 equipment banks spread across the country, primarily catering to schools and institutions. However, gear banks are expanding to include people with disabilities as one of their future target groups. Here, the focus will be on offering proper guidance and training so that everyone can use the equipment safely and effectively. By building and supporting gear banks, outdoor pursuits centres can make equipment more readily available to those who need it.
It’s important for outdoor pursuits centres to keep in mind the barriers that exist for people with disabilities when it comes to accessing the outdoors. Lack of physical access and equipment, as well as lack of accompanying persons, are major barriers. Practical reasons can also prevent individuals from being more active outdoors. By conducting a needs analysis and mapping equipment, such as the analysis conducted by the Outdoor Institute in Silkeborg Municipality, centres can ensure that their clients have access to the equipment they need. By taking steps to reduce these barriers, outdoor pursuits centres can help individuals with disabilities enjoy the benefits of being outdoors. [17][18]
10. High Quality Outdoor Learning Opportunities for Young People and Community.
High Quality Outdoor Learning Opportunities are essential for young people and the community. The High Quality Outdoor Learning guide provides a valuable resource for evaluating and improving the quality of outdoor learning. It outlines ten key outcomes of outdoor learning with a range of indicators that support improvement work. The guide also emphasizes the importance of working closely with partners to enhance the delivery of outdoor learning. Teachers, youth workers, instructors and other professionals are encouraged to use this guide as a training and promotional tool to promote the use of outdoor learning. It is a valuable resource for those who are committed to providing young people with positive experiences in the natural world.
Outward Bound is a leading provider of outdoor education programs for youth and adults. With more than 20 course areas nationwide, it has never been easier to experience Outward Bound. Outward Bound programs offer a wide range of activities such as backpacking, mountaineering, whitewater rafting, canoeing, dog sledding expeditions, sailing trips and many more. Outward Bound programs enhance personal potential and help young people cultivate a passion for learning. Outward Bound USA is taking bold steps to serve more students everywhere in partnership with communities and public schools. By embarking on an Outward Bound journey, young people come face-to-face with their growth zone on an outdoor expedition.
The United Kingdom is home to a variety of outdoor pursuits centers that offer high quality outdoor learning opportunities for young people and the community. The centers offer an array of activities such as climbing, archery, canoeing, kayaking, caving, abseiling, orienteering, high ropes and low ropes courses, team building exercises and many more. Some of the popular outdoor pursuit centers in the UK include The National Mountaineering Center Plas-y-Brenin, PGL Adventure Centers, Kingswood, YMCA Fairthorne Manor, and The Outward Bound Trust. These centers provide young people and the community with a range of activities that foster personal growth, develop personal and social skills, enhance physical well-being, build confidence, and promote appreciation of the natural world.
In conclusion, High Quality Outdoor Learning Opportunities provide enormous benefits for young people and the community. The High Quality Outdoor Learning guide provides a valuable resource for evaluating and improving the quality of outdoor learning. Outward Bound is a leading provider of outdoor education programs for youth and adults that offer a wide range of activities that stimulate personal potential and cultivate a passion for learning. The United Kingdom is home to numerous outdoor pursuits centers that provide high quality outdoor learning opportunities for young people and the community. These centers offer a variety of activities that foster personal growth, develop personal and social skills, enhance physical well-being, build confidence, and promote appreciation of the natural world. [19][20]