Increasingly schools are searching for ways in which to invigorate the National Curriculum, educate young people about values and attitudes, and motivate children to become more enthusiastic learners (and reward children who have worked well).

All children respond well to activities that bring a practical dimension to lessons and Hindleap’s educational programme brings a relevance to a host of subjects that cannot always be achieved in a classroom situation – as well as developing self confidence that will support them in their learning. 

From the reports we receive from teachers it is clear that this approach not only has a profound impact on learning outcomes but also has a positive outcome on childrens’ emotional wellbeing.  

The programmes that pupils follow at Hindleap are designed to help them develop their potential as healthy, enterprising and responsible citizens. In particular, Hindleap motivates those who may struggle academically, offering activities and positive role models to address the particular problems associated with lack of respect for adults and the low educational attainment of boys. And with more children with special educational needs now taught in mainstream classes, alternatives to formal classroom education are now arguably more important than ever.

Also, exposure to outdoor education helps young people with sharply differing abilities work together and therefore learn together back in school as well as develop stronger relationships between school children and their teachers.

For many inner-city children the natural world in particular seems remote and irrelevant. Residential weeks at Hindleap are geared to change this negative perception and help pupils to develop a deeper understanding of the environment.  The value of learning through nature is being increasingly recognised as a means of both promoting environmental issues and of re-engaging disruptive children who may be at risk of exclusion.

For further information or to arrange a visit to see Hindleap for yourself please call James Thomson on 01342 828212 or email james.thomson@londonyouth.org.uk