Unique experiences, extraordinary residentials KS3, GCSE & A Level Teacher s Guide
Welcome to YHA YHA's impact on young people's learning and development There is growing recognition of the unique value of residential school trips. Teachers agree that learning outside the classroom makes lessons more memorable, improves students motivation to learn and improves engagement with the subject matter. YHA has more than 70 Learning Outside the Classroom accredited sites, the most of any residential provider in the UK. We offer a diverse range of educational residentials: Our Action Adventure and subject-specific packages are National Curriculum-linked and can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of a group. We also offer teacher-led residentials, giving classes the chance to study their subject in inspiring surroundings with the option to bolt-on activities. Our approach delivers bespoke educational residentials that ultimately improve attainment. We are determined to create opportunities for all young people to engage with their education and reach their potential. We have... Over 70 LOtC accredited sites and counting A wide range of properties, varying in size from 10s to 100s of beds Sole use of hostels is available if you don t want to share Support may be available for children with challenging lives Free planning visits and free leader places We are proud to be working with Mace Foundation to help improve the futures of young people with challenging lives through the provision of life changing breaks Contents 2. 7. 8. 12. 20. Welcome to YHA Map Transition and Enrichment Packages Action Adventure Multi-Activity Bolt-on's Flexible expereiences Geography and Ecology Revision Breaks Self-led Duke of Edingburgh 2 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 3
Unique experiences, extraordinary residentials Instead of climbing an indoor wall, your pupils could be scrambling up a rock face, abseiling down a viaduct or canoeing on a real river. Add to that options including searching for life on the seashore, taking part in medieval banquets or learning the art of teamwork. You ve got the makings of a truly unforgettable school trip. Working with teachers and experts in their fields, we have prepared a range of fully flexible residential options that are ideal for school groups of all shapes, sizes and abilities. Our flexible approach to planning your residential sets us apart from other providers. Whether you want a self-led adventure, the whole place to yourselves, activities and meals provided for you, or a bespoke combination, our experienced staff will create a tailor-made residential to meet your learning objectives and budget. The impact of Brilliant Residentials The amazing adventures experienced on a residential can live long in the memories of both teachers and students. That s why we are campaigning for #BrilliantResidentials to enable more young people to experience high-quality residentials, which can lead to improved resilience, relationships, achievement and brighter, brilliant futures for young people. In insightful research by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation the Learning Away report outlines, measures and explains the significant impacts that even a short residential can have on a young person's education, while achieving positive outcomes for teachers and the school as a whole. The Evidence Percentage of Secondary School students who believed they improved in these areas as the result of a residential: 77% increased attainment 84% improved relationships 71% better engagement 82% increased confidence (Learning Away Final Evaluation Report, York Consulting 2015) To learn more, or to pledge your support and join the campaign, visit learningaway.org.uk Winter Residentials The Learning Away consortium are working collaboratively with residential providers to raise awareness about the benefits of residentials for schools in the winter months through a new #WinterResidentials campaign. Winter residentials are particularly effective because: There is time for learning and development to be embedded back in school the Learning Away programme discovered that residentials are especially likely to have a long term impact on students and on attainment in particular, when followed up on students return to school. They foster deeper relationships which are sustained back in school relationships between staff and students become more trusting and respectful. Students get to know teachers as individuals; staff gain a better understanding of their students and how to respond to them which can benefit throughout the rest of the school year. So the sooner the teachers know their pupils and set them up for success the better, and residentials play a crucial role in achieving this. They are more affordable and therefore inclusive for all students many residential providers have reduced rates, discounts and bursaries available over the winter months. They offer new learning opportunities such as: astronomy; night walks; and exploring in the dark. It will be within the hands of providers to develop programmes which highlight the opportunities available to at this time of year. 4 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 5
How we can help YHA is determined to reach more children with challenging lives. We believe that every child deserves the chance to broaden their horizons, skills, confidence and self-reliance. As a charity we transform young lives providing trips for children with challenging lives. Last year, generous members, donors, charitable trusts and those that stay with us have supported 8,852 young people facing adversity year from 712 difference schools and youth groups to access residential trips. To find out more about the support YHA can offer, or to complete an application form, visit our website. Residential Outcomes YHA trips create Time away from home in unique places in the countryside, coast and cities A wide range of quality YHA or self-led activities Unstructured time for friendship-forming Opportunities to overcome fears, stretch yourself and achieve A level playing field to work together Immediate gain Space to play and learn gaining fresh perspectives away from normal routines and people New skills and activities tried to inspire future choice Deeper relationships with group and leader Raising of aspirations and expectations Better understanding of people around them, difference and diversity Enduring benefit Experiences to inspire future decisions, give greater confidence to stretch and develop Positive engagement and development of new learning behaviours Positive relationships that will help young people through transitions Young people recognise their potential and are motivated to achieve All young people aspire to succeed You re never far away Key Package hostels Bolt-on packages available Self-led hostels * Please note that self-led stays and bolt on activities may also be available from our package hostels Borrowdale The Sill at Hadrian's Wall Grasmere Helvellyn Buttermere Patterdale Langdon Beck Ennerdale Ambleside Whitby Langdale Windermere Eskdale Hawes Grinton Lodge Boggle Hole Coniston Coppermines Kettlewell Hawkshead Helmsley Arnside Malham York Haworth Edale Manchester Castleton Losehill Hall Liverpool Conwy Hathersage Snowdon Llanberis Ravenstor Eyam Snowdon Ranger Snowdon Pen-y-Pass Sherwood Forest Hartington Hall Snowdon Bryn Gwynant Ilam Hall Hunstanton Broad haven Manorbier Borth Brecon Beacons Danywenallt Cardiff Central Minehead Ironbridge Coalport Wilderhope Manor Wye Valley St Briavels Castle Bristol Bath Cheddar New Forest Oakhampton Lulworth cove Treyarnon Bay Beer Dartmoor Portland Totland Eden Project Swanage National Forest Stratford-upon-Avon Oxford St Pauls Thameside Truleigh Hill Isle of Wight Cowes UKSA Holmbury Cambridge London Lee Valley Medway South Downs Brighton Sheringham Blaxhall Canterbury 6 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 7 Penzance
Transition & enrichment packages Ideal for celebration, transition and enrichment programmes, our adventure packages are jam-packed with fun outdoor challenges and meaningful learning opportunities. Fully tailored to the academic needs of your students, our packages offer thrilling activities from sunrise until sunset, helping you to get the maximum benefit from your trip. Call us today and our advisors will talk you through the options available. Together we can plan a residential experience that will bring learning to life at great value prices you can trust. Groups staying with us will always be given dedicated rooms with private leader rooms, and our hostels may also be available for sole use. Our advisors will be happy to talk through any individual requirements. If you have any specific or individual concerns about the safety of young people, either about to stay or staying with YHA, please raise them. We will be happy to share any information we have about our policies and procedures, or specific sites. Safeguarding children is our priority and we work closely with industry leading experts, including the DBS and the NSPCC, to ensure that our child safeguarding practises are over and above those required by law. All of our properties are regularly inspected for their physical safety and security, whilst our dedicated team of operational and activity staff undergo thorough training and screening programmes. 8 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 9
Action Adventure package Activities may include... Prices from 76.50 per person per night (exc VAT) Education on land, rock & water Designed to make the most of the natural world around us, our Action Adventure package really takes the challenge up a level. Forget simulated experiences indoors and instead engage your students with exhilarating activities in the great outdoors. You ll see the difference that a genuine experience makes as your group tackles the thrills of natural rock surfaces or man-made structures including bridges and viaducts, breathe in fresh country air as they prepare to take a leap of faith, or paddle down the river as cool water slaps against the side of their canoe. Teamwork is key as the adventure begins. Our experienced staff encourage students to step out of their comfort zones to try different things and take on new challenges. Students will tackle a wide range of activities, each one intended to improve their skills and self-confidence, strengthen friendships and help them grow as team players. This package is perfect for PE students or those wishing to push themselves through enrichment and transition programmes. Caving Weaselling High ropes Abseiling Canoeing Raft building Leap of faith Night hike Experiential learning promotes a deeper approach to learning and, as a result, students are more likely to remember and apply what was learnt in future Sam Cooley, Victoria Burns, & Jennifer Cumming (2015) The role of outdoor adventure education in facilitating group work in higher education. Higher Education. 69:567 582 *Price are based on a two night stay and include full board meals, accommodation and activities 10 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 11
Sample two night itinerary Time Day one Day two Day three 8.30am 9.30am Breakfast Breakfast 9.30am 12.30pm Caving Canoeing 12.30pm 1.30pm Lunch Lunch 2.00pm 5.00pm Arrival Climbing Departure Crate tower 5.00pm 7.00pm Dinner Dinner 7.30pm 8.30pm Night Hike Orienteering 12 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 13
Multi-Activity package Activities may include... Prices from 64.50 per person per night (exc VAT) Outdoor challenges fuelled by fun Guided walk Archery Abseiling Shelter building It all seemed really difficult, but when you give it a go it s good Student. St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School, Bristol *Minimum two night stay. Includes full board meals, accommodation and activities Aimed at challenging and engaging students through practical PE-based activity, our Multi-Activity package offers a mixture of adventurous and onsite activities that make the most of the great outdoors and the hostel locality, whilst offering something for all abilities. Led by both YHA staff and specially-selected external AALA partners, we combine challenges including shelter building and fire lighting, with a spot of weaselling, archery and outdoor climbing. Packed with morale boosting, team building activities that aim to bring out the best in students, our packages aim to provide a genuine sense of achievement and discovery. Bush craft & fire lighting Orienteering Team challenges Caving Canoeing Outdoor climbing Night hike This is an experience that ALL children should have Senior Assistant Headteacher. Tupton Hall School, Derbyshire 14 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 15
Sample two night itinerary Time Day one Day two Day three 8.30am 9.30am Breakfast Breakfast 9.30am 12.30pm Abseiling Firelighting & Shelter Building 12.30pm 1.30pm Lunch Lunch 2.00pm 5.00pm Arrival Raft Building Departure Team Challenges 5.00pm 7.00pm Dinner Dinner 7.30pm 8.30pm Night Hike Rocket Launch 16 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 17
Bolt-on Activities Perfect for filling free time, our bolt-on activities offer challenging and rewarding activities that can easily be added on to your YHA stay. Available as half-day and full-day options, we offer an exciting range of activities that are designed to entertain and engage pupils of all ages and abilities. Adventure Bolt-on The British countryside offers a near-endless number of opportunities to explore, discover new things and try unusual activities. From fell walking in the Lake District to canoeing in the Peak District or climbing and abseiling in Wales, every outdoor activity you can think of and many you can't is catered for somewhere. Activities may include: climbing, abseiling, coasteering, canoeing, kayaking, ghyll scramble, mountain walk. Prices from 30 Field Studies Bolt-on Working with the Field Studies Council (FSC) in the Lake District and the Peak District National Park (PDNP) in Derbyshire, we are proud to provide exam board specification geography and ecology fieldwork activities for groups staying at hostels in these two stunning National Parks. The most popular topics include: Hydrology, Impact of Tourism, Glaciation and Cold Environments, River Studies and Urban Studies. Theatre Explorer Bolt-on If you're thinking about seeing a show whilst staying at our London or Stratford-upon-Avon hostels we can recommend a great way to make the event a little more special. Try our bespoke 2 3 hour drama workshops, delivered by the awesome folk at The Theatre Workout and Dreamshed Theatre. Prices from 8 YHA Bolt-on YHA delivered bolt-ons are available at all of our sites that offer YHA packages, so you can rest assured that you have well trained and experienced staff engaging and challenging your pupils. Activities may include: Team challenges, shelter building, archery, guided walk, fire lighting. Prices from 8 City Explorer Bolt-on Unique adventures, provided by The Exploration Society. Think Cluedo and treasure maps scaled up using the famous streets and museums of London. We have four exciting challenges on offer, all hosted by The Exploration Society s experienced staff. Using maps, exhibits and in two cases tracking and interrogating actors, find the clues and use your deduction skills to solve the case. Your adventure may include: The mystery of the museum murder, The mystery of the crystal skulls, The mystery of the missing crown, The mystery of the locked book. Prices from 7.75 per person per night (exc VAT) *Price are based on field studies bolt-on Prices from 7.75 Prices from 15 18 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 19
Flexible experiences New! YHA The Sill at Hadrian s Wall The flexibility of our residentials ensures that your experience perfectly complements in-class learning and the appropriate skill levels of your students. From self-led residentials to adventure packages we offer engaging and exciting ways to inspire, motivate and challenge every member of your group, at prices that won t pinch your pocket. The opportunity for students to put theory to the test makes such a difference Now open, this 14.8 million, state-of-the-art location has been created in partnership with the Northumberland National Park Authority. This exciting initiative is of international importance and partners YHA with a top attraction for groups exploring the Hadrian s Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is just a few hundred metres away. Teacher. Cathedral Academy, Wakefield Residential visits are a significant element of outdoor learning programmes and we value the support available from YHA David Armstrong. Outdoor Education Advisor 20 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 21
Geography and ecology studies Prices from 33.75 per person per night (exc VAT) Eden Project Due to the government requirements for a minimum number of fieldwork days at GCSE, AS and A level, and with the changes to all the exam boards specifications, now may be a good time to rethink your school s geography fieldwork options. Whether it is AQA, Edexcel, OCR or Eduqas, or a self-led or tutored opportunity you are looking for, we probably have more great geography options available than you thought. cover certain aspects of the new specifications, provide local knowledge or expertise and qualifications where needed. We are incredibly lucky to have hostels in unique locations that are synonymous with geography topics, and we use this uniqueness to its very best advantage. To find out more contact us today. *Price based on a one night stay, and includes full board meals, accommodation and activities. Especially designed for the unique setting of Cornwall s Eden Project, Eden s Education Team offer a huge range of curriculum and activityled workshops and challenges which can be combined to create the perfect stay for your students. Find out more www.edenproject. com/education This evening was spent exploring the Rainforest Biome after dark! It was the most incredible experience! Children were fascinated! Teacher from George Street Primary In addition to our options for self-led fieldwork residentials we can also offer tutored courses from a number of our Lake District and Peak District hostels through our delivery partnership with the Field Studies Council and the Peak District National Park. This enables schools to bolt-on additional tutored courses to 22 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465
Revision breaks Self-led residentials A few nights in an inspiring setting, away from the distractions of home, may be just the thing to help a revision plan run smoothly, reduce stress levels and lead to improved grades. Many of our hostels, particularly those in tranquil rural locations, are ideally suited to revision breaks. We'll provide you with all the space you need to focus minds, dedicated classroom facilities, and prepare delicious meals at times to suit breaks in your day. Plus you have the option to add bolt-on activities or team building challenges onto your stay too. If taking your entire class away for a subjectspecific field trip close to exam time simply isn't possible, consider an Easter holiday or weekend study break to benefit from a revision retreat whilst school's out. Great for groups wanting to do their own thing, our self-led options give you the freedom to run your own residential whilst enjoying a wide range of accommodation options and group friendly facilities. In addition to Youth Hostels, ask us about our camping barns, camping pods, cabins and campsites which may be suitable for your group depending on its size. Meeting/class rooms Games room Cycle storage Drying rooms Hostel grounds Great social spaces Outdoor grounds Self-catering kitchens Restaurants serving breakfast, picnic lunch and evening meals Wifi 24 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 25
Duke of Edinburgh The benefits of our DofE residentials We offer fantastic opportunities for Duke of Edinburgh participants to complete both the volunteering section (Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards) and the residential section (Gold Award) of the DofE Award. Pack a bag and get ready to enjoy the experience of a lifetime as you make new friends, learn new skills and get fully involved with everything YHA can offer you. From hostel stays to camping adventures, volunteering at our summer camps, your chosen YHA or our National Office, or even supporting as a fundraiser, staying with YHA is a great way to boost your confidence and independence whilst leaving a positive footprint on your own life and many other people s. This year 395 under 25-year-olds stayed with YHA for their DofE Gold residentials twice as many as the year before. We asked them about the benefits of our residentials: 75% said they had better social skills 73% boosted their practical skills 67% grew in confidence 65% were more motivated to volunteer again 53% felt they had improved employability I thoroughly enjoyed it. The location is absolutely lovely, the views are amazing. The residential itself was more challenging than I expected so I ve learnt a lot. We also had more freedom than I was expecting, which I appreciated as I was one of the oldest 2015 DofE Gold residential participant 99% of them loved it! 26 groups.yha.org.uk 0800 0195 465 0800 0195 465 groups.yha.org.uk 27
Enriching the lives of young people since 1930 Over 70 LOtC accredited sites and counting A wide range of properties, varying from 10s to 100s of beds Sole use of hostels is available Support may be available for children with challenging lives Free planning visits and free leader places Where you go changes who you become We know that travel and real adventure transform lives We believe every young person should have the same chance to discover, explore and grow YHA (England & Wales) Trevelyan House, Dimple Road Matlock, DE4 3YH 0800 0195 465 groupreservations@yha.org.uk groups.yha.org.uk YHA (England & Wales) Company No. 282555 Registered Charity No. 306122 We create unique opportunities for people from all backgrounds to experience amazing places, share extraordinary journeys, and take a different path through life We are YHA we transform young lives forever through travel and real adventure