Engagement, resilience, and commitment on show during Outward Bound Trip
The 2026 Outward Bound trip took Second Years to a new destination, Eskdale in the western Lake District.
The aim of the week – stretching and challenging pupils physically, mentally and socially – remained the same, but the environment and set-up of the centre allowed these to be delivered in different and exciting ways.
Once settled into their groups and accommodation, pupils enthusiastically threw themselves into the week’s activities. These included bridge jumping, gorge scrambling and wild camping.
The programme felt highly progressive, with the level of challenge and learning increasing throughout the week.
It was fantastic to see groups develop from being largely instructor-led to becoming well-functioning teams, with pupils taking on roles and adapting them according to the activity or challenge.
Outdoor Education Co-ordinator Mr Adam Hughes said: “As a staff team, we were incredibly impressed by the pupils’ engagement, resilience, and commitment to the experience.
“A week like this challenges pupil in many ways, and it is always wonderful to see them excel outside the classroom.
“It was clear that many pupils will take the skills, confidence and lessons gained from the week forward with them, applying them both at home and at school as they continue their SGS journey.”
Pupil Alex L said: “The trip to Eskdale was one of my favourite SGS trips yet! My favourite activity was gorge scrambling, where we climbed a waterfall. The bridge jumping was terrifying, but I felt amazing after I conquered my fear and took the leap of faith!
“Our groups and rooms were random and although this was a bit daunting at first, I made some great new friends that I would never normally have hung out with. I was also a little apprehensive about being without my phone for the week, but found that I didn’t miss it, and it meant that we all had some great conversations and games in the evenings.
“I would highly recommend the Eskdale trip to anyone who loves the outdoors and wants an adventure!”
