Increasing pupils cultural capital through outdoor learning experiences
Learning outside the classroom
How can school trips help develop a child's cultural capital?
One way of thinking about cultural capital is that it is an individual's social assets that enable them to succeed and thrive in wider society through education. Examples of social assets are education, intellect, skill and behaviours and they can be learnt through experiences and opportunities.
Each individual possesses their own cultural capital that they have developed throughout their life. It has now become a focus of Ofsted to ensure that teachers use the curriculum to enhance the experience and opportunities available to children, particularly the most disadvantaged, to ensure the continued development of cultural capital - something they describe as essential knowledge that pupils need to be educated citizens. Expanding upon the objectives of Citizenship, SMSC and PSHE, the development a child's cultural captial can be achieved through activities like travel, or music, or indeed anything that gives them access to new opportunities and experiences.
Knowledge, skills, behaviours, and cultural awareness that students gain through exposure to cultural experiences equip students with the tools to navigate and succeed in diverse social and professional settings. This includes understanding art, history, literature, and societal norms, often fostered through student cultural experiences like museum visits, theatre performances, or interactive workshops.
It is important to recognise that every child is unique and that they are constantly learning. However, the focus on cultural capital is intended to give children the social assets to be resilient, capable, confident and able to thrive in a range of social and academic environments. All of which will help children achieve a better standard of education.
Perhaps your class have not had much experience in a rural environment. Children who grow up in cities have a very different life experience to those in smaller towns or villages. Planning a school trip into the countryside, or giving them the chance to try activities like pond dipping, or bushcraft skills, would be a great way to build their cultural capital. Alternatively, your class may be from a rural area without much exposure to, or experience of, the arts. Why not consider a theatre trip, or a visit to a city like London, Manchester or Birmingham.
If the majority of a school's students are from a single ethnic group, those students many be missing out on experiencing other cultures and appreciating differences. Schools can plan and deliver a variety of workshops or day trips; immersive experiences of cultures and faiths that they may not have had much exposure to previously.
Why Choose Our Cultural Experiences?
Our school trips and workshops are designed to build cultural capital in schools by offering engaging, curriculum-aligned experiences. From guided tours of historical landmarks to interactive art and music workshops, our trips are led by passionate educators who will inspire your students.
Conway Centres Tattenhall
North WestLocated in the beautiful village of Tattenhall just 7 miles from Chester the centre offers a peaceful haven and a base for wide range of Outdoor Activities and the Arts. It's proximity to many schools makes it ideal for day courses too.
Unforgettable Residentials at The Hive
London & South EastThe Hive is in the heart of Epping Forest, within easy reach of east London. In the safe hands of expert environmentalists our memorable & affordable curriculum-led outdoor learning unique residentials bring nature nearer for all ages & abilities.
Liverpool for Primary & Middle Schools-Curriculum Travel
North WestCurriculum Travel offers age-appropriate tours for primary and middle school students in Liverpool, featuring a journey from the Long and Winding Road to Penny Lane in a Magical Mystery Tour.
Rock The Sport
in-school workshopIgnite creativity, boost well-being, and make learning unforgettable with Rocktopus! Our dynamic, cross-curricular workshops bring PE, music, and literacy together in an exciting way—perfect for engaging every student and creating 4 music videos!
Leighton Hall
North WestLeighton has 8 inspirational visits for KS 1 & 2 children Indoor: House and Homes, Upstairs Downstairs Outdoor: Survival Skills, Food for Thought, Seasonal Art New for 2025, Living Like Cavemen, An Orchard’s Tale Seasonal: Victorian Christmas
Walker Art Gallery
North WestWalker Art Gallery offers a fantastic selection of curriculum-linked workshops for groups, from its popular 'Storytelling with the Greeks' session - taking place in front of an epic painting - to 'Tour and Draw', an exciting guided experience.
Carnival Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Carnival dance workshops for schools linked to your Brazil or Rio topics or as part of your World Week or Multicultural event. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers!
London
London & South EastLondon, the vibrant capital of England is the ultimate city break. With its rich history, diverse culture, and a plethora of attractions, it offers a every conceivable educational experience for all age groups.
Life in the Stone Age
West MidlandsJoin us for a fun day in the outdoors and use experiential learning to explore and understand life in the Stone Age! Work together to build shelters and fires, and create authentic Stone Age art and tools to take back to school.
School Values Rock!
in-school workshopEngage your entire school in a fun, creative, and unforgettable live music experience that builds a deep connection with your school values. This workshop will inspire passion and enthusiasm for the values that matter most to your school community.
Decades Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Decades dance workshops for schools. These workshops focus on the 20th Century dance styles, which are ideal for history topics and school anniversaries. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers!
Educational Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Educational dance workshops for schools help enrich your pupils' learning and link to many school topics, world events and celebrations. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers!
World Book Day Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Our World Book Day dance workshops bring books to life through dance and give your pupils the chance to get creative. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers! Booking FAST, confirm your date now.
Your Isle of Wight Adventure Awaits!
London & South EastWe offer 100% bespoke adventure based residentials to the Isle of Wight. We can include transport, accommodation, activities, risk assessments and much more, saving you time and stress! Leave the work to us so you can focus on teaching!
World War 1
in-school workshopHumph’s Histories is led by Steve Humpherson who has a passion for history and passing on this passion. Steve combines fun and learning through his exciting and engaging activity based workshops. Just click to see the full list of workshops offer
Bolsover Castle
East MidlandsThere are plenty of outdoor and indoor facilities for school groups to see at Bolsover castle, including the 17th century castle built by Charles Cavendish, Riding House Range which now contains an exhibition, Terrace Range and Wall Walk.
Cumulus Outdoors Tented Village - Corfe Castle
South WestOur exciting range of land and water based outdoor adventure activities take place at some of Dorset’s most iconic coastal locations and offer the unique opportunity to explore the stunning Jurassic Coastline whilst trying something new.
Isle of Wight - The Island Classroom
London & South EastDo you like the idea of teaching your curriculum while your students' minds are wide open? When better for them to learn than during the fun of your school trip? We are the Island Classroom, where you can combine fun with education in a unique way.
Leighton Hall Outdoor Education
North WestLeighton has 8 inspirational visits for KS 1 & 2 children Indoor: House and Homes, Upstairs Downstairs Outdoor: Survival Skills, Food for Thought, Seasonal Art New for 2025, Living Like Cavemen, An Orchard’s Tale Seasonal: Victorian Christmas
Peak - Chasewater Activity Centre
West MidlandsChasewater Activity Centre is located near Cannock. We offer various watersports from canoeing to raft-building, and land based activities for school groups, including residentials.
Kabannas Liverpool
North WestAffordable and comfortable group accommodation for school trips in the centre of Liverpool. We have fantastic links to the docks and other locations across Liverpool. Short walk from the train station and easy access for coach drop off.
Unforgettable Day Visits at The Hive
London & South EastThe Hive is in the heart of Epping Forest, within easy reach of east London. In the safe hands of expert environmentalists our memorable & affordable curriculum-led outdoor learning activities bring nature nearer for all ages & abilities.
Peak - Astbury Watersports Centre
North WestAstbury Watersports Centre is located at Astbury Mere, near Congleton town centre. We offer various watersports from canoeing to sailing, and if getting in the water isn’t what you fancy we also have many different land based activities.
Chinese Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Chinese dance workshops for schools help enrich your pupil's learning. These workshops link with the Chinese New Year and China. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers! Booking FAST, confirm your date now.
Primary School Trip to London with Equity
London & South EastLondon has so much to offer for Primary School trips with excursions and attractions that link to all subject areas.Even though this is the biggest capital city in Europe, we choose excursions that are central so it’s easy for groups to travel.
The Anglo-Saxons and Vikings
in-school workshopHumph’s Histories is led by Steve Humpherson who has a passion for history and passing on this passion. Steve combines fun and learning through his exciting and engaging activity based workshops. Just click to see the full list of workshops offer
World War 2
in-school workshopHumph’s Histories is led by Steve Humpherson who has a passion for history and passing on this passion. Steve combines fun and learning through his exciting and engaging activity based workshops. Just click to see the full list of workshops offer
Walker Art Gallery - Virtual Classroom
online/in-school workshopWalker Art Gallery's 'Art of Wellbeing' virtual classroom provides a safe and fun environment to introduce students to mental wellbeing and self-care, using its collection of artworks to encourage conversation and show how creativity can support them
Arts, Crafts & Planet Friendly Projects
in-school workshopStreet Style Surgery delivers hands-on, inspiring workshops that spark creativity and support wellbeing. From eco crafts and jewellery making to graffiti art, spin painting, and upcycled fashion — our sessions are fun, flexible, and SEN-friendly.
The Romans in Britannia
in-school workshopHumph’s Histories is led by Steve Humpherson who has a passion for history and enjoys sharing it. Steve combines fun and learning through his exciting and engaging activity based workshops. Please see below the full list of workshops offered
Kenwood House
London & South EastLocated in North London, Kenwood is a hidden gem of historical interest for school groups, with an internationally renowned art collection, Robert Adam interiors, acres of land to explore and links to the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.
Audley End
East of EnglandThere's a full day outside the classroom at Audely End House and Gardens. A 17th century mansion complete with Victorian Service Wing, Kitchen Garden and stables to explore outside and visit the hands-on Nursery Suite and Coal Gallery.
Arc Adventures
WalesPerfect Mountain side activity centre with no fabricated environments - Real activities in real locations. We aim to provide new elements to the residential experience that take Outdoor Ed. to the next level.
Urban Arts - Graffiti - Fashion - Beatboxing - Breakdancing - DJ
in-school workshopDiscover Urban Workshops Your Students Will Love From bold graffiti canvas art and custom spray painted T-shirt design to hands-on DJing, beatboxing, breakdancing & fashion design sessions, there’s something for everyone!
School Of Noise online
online/in-school workshopExplore the wonderful world of sound with the School of Noise. Our fun and educational workshops are designed to investigate the science of sound and provide pupils with a hands-on opportunity to conduct their own experiments.
Maths Rocks!
in-school workshopTransform maths into a rock star experience with the Maths Rocks workshop by Rocktopus! This high-energy, interactive workshop combines music, movement, and maths to make learning times tables and key maths concepts fun and unforgettable.
The Ancient Greeks
in-school workshopHumph’s Histories is led by Steve Humpherson who has a passion for history and passing on this passion. Steve combines fun and learning through his exciting and engaging activity based workshops. Just click to see the full list of workshops offer
Ingestre Hall Residential Arts Centre
West MidlandsIngestre Arts deliver unique, transferable learning experiences through creative & expressive arts such as music, drama, visual art, dance & animation. The UKs only dedicated residential arts centre, a residential with us is unlike any other!
School of Noise
in-school workshopExplore the wonderful world of sound with the School of Noise. Our fun and educational workshops are designed to investigate the science of sound and provide pupils with a hands-on opportunity to conduct their own experiments.
International & Multicultural Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - International & Multicultural dance workshops that explore the globe to bring your international or multicultural day or week to life with these dance workshops. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers!
Creative School Trips
London & South EastTheatre Workout is a Destination Management Company (DMC) specialising in creative and cultural group travel for schools, working with UK and international school groups and the group travel industry to deliver hundreds of school trips each year!
Viking Workshop
in-school workshopAn exploration of all things Viking! We bring interactive history right to your school via a full range of resources including a mini-museum, replica weapons and games; all hosted by our experienced actors who bring history to life in the classroom.
The Rocktopus Experience - For Special Schools
in-school workshopWe offer an engaging and flexible music workshop designed to meet the diverse needs of students in special schools. As a live rock band, we provide children with the unique opportunity to experience live music—possibly for the first time!
Cumulus Outdoors Residential Centre - Swanage
South WestTailored adventure residentials on the Dorset coast at our residential centre in Swanage, can include activities such as Coasteering, Climbing, Mackerel Fishing, Field Studies, and Bushcraft, delivered by our highly qualified instructors.
Flamenco Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Flamenco & Spanish dance workshops for schools. These are a great way to start learning about Spain and can be booked anytime during the school year. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers!
Victorians
in-school workshopHumph’s Histories is led by Steve Humpherson who has a passion for history and enjoys sharing it. Steve combines fun and learning through his exciting and engaging activity based workshops. Please see below the full list of workshops offered
Peak - Underbank Activity Centre
YorkshireUnderbank Activity Centre is located on the shores of Underbank Reservoir just off of the Stocksbridge bypass. We offer various watersports from canoeing to raft-building, and land based activities for school groups, including residentials.
Cumulus Outdoors Curriculum Day Trips
South WestWe run exciting and fun filled Adventure Activity Days on the Jurassic Coast for schools and youth groups. These outdoor activities are designed to improve self esteem, confidence and support learning outside the classroom.
Indian Dance Workshops
in-school workshopBook The Best "Dance Days" - Indian & Bollywood dance workshops are very popular during Diwali but can be booked at any time during the school year. Book in advance to secure your ideal date. With over 1000 5⭐ reviews from verified teachers!
Museum of Liverpool
North WestMuseum of Liverpool offers a great selection of curriculum-linked workshops for schools and groups, from a session exploring local transport to an arty 'Best Buildings' workshop all about Liverpool's stunning landscape.
Cultural Capital enquiry..
If you would like us to help you find a school trip or workshop to boost your students' cultural capital, please use the form below.
Cultural capital in schools is a transformative concept that enriches students' educational experiences by exposing them to diverse knowledge, skills, and cultural opportunities. By integrating cultural capital education into the curriculum through activities like school trips and workshops, educators give students the oppotunities to thrive in a global society.
The Purpose of Cultural Capital in Education
By integrating cultural experiences into the school curriculum, we can:
- Bridge Social Gaps: Expose students from all backgrounds to cultural resources, reducing disparities in access to knowledge
- Enhance Social Mobility: Equip students with the cultural fluency needed for higher education and professional environments
- Promote Inclusivity: Encourage appreciation for diverse cultures, fostering empathy and global awareness
- Support Holistic Development: Build skills like critical thinking, communication, and adaptability through real-world experiences
School trips to cultural landmarks or hands-on workshops in subjects like music or history are powerful ways to achieve these goals.
Benefits of Cultural Capital for Students
Investing in cultural capital in schools yields significant advantages for students, both academically and personally, in the following 3ways:
- Improved Academic Performance: Exposure to cultural experiences, such as visiting art galleries or historical sites, deepens understanding of subjects like history and literature
- Boosted Confidence: Engaging in new environments, like theater workshops or cultural festivals, builds self-assurance and social skills
- Global Awareness: Student cultural experiences foster an appreciation for diversity, preparing students for a connected world
- Career Readiness: Cultural fluency equips students with the soft skills employers value, such as adaptability and communication
Four Ways Schools Can Build Cultural Capital
- 1. Organise Cultural School Trips: Plan visits to museums, cultural festivals, or historical sites to provide immersive learning
- 2. Host Interactive Workshops: Offer sessions in drama, music, or visual arts to spark creativity and cultural appreciation
- 3. Incorporate Diverse Perspectives: Include multicultural content in lessons to reflect global societies
- 4. Partner with Experts: Collaborate with organisations to deliver tailored cultural experiences that align with your curriculum
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