Edgmond Hall Centre for Outdoor Learning School Trip

Edgmond Hall programmes enrich the Citizenship curriculum by helping pupils understand how communities work and how they can positively contribute. Through collaborative activities and shared decision?making, children experience democracy in action while developing communication, teamwork and problem?solving skills. Our inclusive approach ensures every pupil is valued, promoting respect, tolerance and core British values. By living and learning together, pupils build stronger relationships, recognise diversity within society and develop a sense of community cohesion that supports their learning back in school.

Our bushcraft sessions immerse pupils in hands?on outdoor learning that builds confidence, teamwork and a deep connection with the natural environment. Children learn essential woodland skills including shelter?building, fire?lighting techniques and safe campfire practice, supported by expert instructors who prioritise safety, curiosity and exploration. Sessions can also include natural navigation, simple woodcraft, outdoor cooking, wildlife tracking and plant identification, giving pupils a broad introduction to practical bushcraft. Throughout the experience, we emphasise respect for nature, sustainable woodland management and the importance of leaving no trace, ensuring every group gains valuable knowledge, memorable experiences and a strong sense of environmental responsibility.

The whole residential can use the Stone Age for example as a golden thread, or elements can be teased out and cover areas such as:

1. Explore what life was like for Stone Age people ' shelters (homes) / fire
2. Transfer learning and knowledge of Stone Age weapons or tools in to practical making of weapons or tools
3. Identify some features of the Stone Age period in history (Shelters, fires, weapons, using natural resources)
4. Work together in groups and pairs in outdoor learning activities doing Stone Age themed activities

With overnight capacity for groups of 10 to 70, our superb Hall and Cottage provide comfortable group accommodation and a base for schools, organised group retreats, and even for families to share special times together. It can be catered or self-catered, and we can provide activities if you like; we'll tailor it to meet your needs.

The centre is situated in the pretty village of Edgmond, near to Newport in Shropshire which is close to the M54 motorway (J3) and easily reached from the A41.

It's a short drive to Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, Shropshire Hills National Landscape Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Severn Valley Railway at Bridgnorth, Telford Town Park and Hawkestone Park Follies.

The cottage is accessible, and has 12 beds across 4 bedrooms; 2 bathrooms and 3 toilets, spacious living / dining room, and large private garden.

Team building / Team Challenges at Edgmond Hall are fun, experiential, and involve the whole group at the same time; often splitting into smaller groups. By the end of the session, the group will have:

1. worked together identifying when their team was successful and when they were not successful and talking about why this happened
2. shown resilience and persevere during tasks.
3. practiced and repeated tasks adapting their strategies to achieve success.
4. talked and listened effectively to share their ideas and come up with a plan.
5. experience a sense of well-being through achieving successes with their team

Winter is a special time at Edgmond Hall Centre for Outdoor Learning, especially around Christmas. Complete with grotto, nativity, Santa's workshop and a sometimes even a visit to the local church to see the village Christmas tree display, the centre is transformed to immerse children in adventure and the Christmas spirit.

Team building becomes "Elf Training", and a torch-lit walk becomes a chance to find Santa's workshop! For 3 days the children take part in lots of activities, which could include:

* explore "Santa's Magic Map"
* discover winter materials to make decorations and cards
* hunt for baubles to dress the Christmas tree
* meet and feed our goats, rabbits and hens
* follow the "Christmas Journey" and Nativity
* Campfires and Christmas party games
* and maybe, just maybe if they are good, they might even have a special visitor!

At Edgmond Hall, children experience Forest School-style activities that nurture curiosity, independence and a deep connection with the natural world. Through hands?on exploration in our woodlands, pupils engage in activities such as shelter?building, fire skills, tool use, nature discovery and outdoor creativity. Our approach encourages children to take supported risks, work collaboratively and build resilience, while developing problem?solving, communication and emotional wellbeing. By giving pupils time and freedom to explore, observe and reflect, Edgmond Hall provides an authentic Forest School experience that strengthens confidence, fosters a respect for nature and supports holistic learning across the curriculum.