We’re proud to announce the successful delivery of a series of funded residential and day visit outdoor learning experiences as part of the UK Youth funded Adventures Away from Home programme. 

Designed to support young people aged 11–18, and up to 25 for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), the programme provides meaningful opportunities for learners to engage in accessible outdoor learning activities in the Lake District.  These experiences encourage personal development, learning outside the classroom and promote a deeper connection with the natural environment. 

Over the course of the programme, we hosted: 

• 200 pupils from 13 different schools for inclusive two-night residential stays, each including four outdoor activity sessions 
• 100 pupils from 6 different schools for one-day visits, each featuring at least one adventurous activity 

Young people from a wide range of backgrounds were enabled to build confidence, develop teamwork skills and explore the outdoors they may not otherwise have had access to. 

Recognising the importance of support staff in delivering safe and impactful experiences, additional funding was secured to enable 51 teachers and carers to accompany the groups, ensuring all participants could fully engage and benefit. 

Further expanding the programme’s reach, we also delivered three dedicated activity weekends, attended by an extra 13 young people, offering more focused and personalised outdoor experiences. 

Cheryl McDonald, Income Generation Manager for Calvert Lakes said: 

“We are incredibly proud of the impact this programme has had. These experiences go far beyond outdoor activities – they help young people grow in confidence, build resilience and encourage independence. For many, it might be their first time staying away from home, or engaging with nature in this way, and the results have been truly inspiring.” 

Wayne Collins, from Bishop Auckland College, a recipient of the programme, said: 

“Both staff and learners were absolutely overjoyed with the entire experience. The facilities were outstanding, and your team’s professionalism, warmth, and dedication have clearly made a lasting impression on everyone. Our learners felt supported, encouraged, and inspired throughout their stay, and it was wonderful to see their confidence grow as they took part in the activities. Many thanks to the activity instructors who worked with the groups for making this a truly magical experience.” 

The success of the scheme highlights the value of accessible outdoor education and the importance of continued investment in inclusive opportunities that support young people’s wellbeing and development. 

In a milestone year for us, as we celebrate 50 years of inclusive adventures, this exciting initiative makes more industry-leading outdoor learning experiences more accessible to more young people from across the UK.  

We look forward to building on this success with future programmes, continuing to provide life-changing adventures for people with disabilities, alongside their friends, families, peers and carers.  

For more information about the Lake District Calvert Trust and the exciting adventure breaks we offer, check out our website.