Adventure Based Learning in a primary school.

Why this is leading practice

Westfield have developed a ground-breaking programme of Adventure Based Learning (ABL) outdoor education activities for children aged 3 -11. The programme runs during curriculum time, after school and during the holidays.

Impact and achievements range from improved communication skills and self esteem development with both their peers, parents and adults, to being able to work more effectively in group situations

The programme is leading practise as it has been recognised locally and nationally as an innovative approach to improving attainment and aspirations, through removing barriers to learning and engaging with those who do not engage with conventional teaching methods.
 

Impact to date

• ABL has been developed over a substantial period - seven years plus
• It encompasses and underpins the whole ethos and philosophy of the school
• ABL is an integral element of the curriculum
• The school pupils come from an area of extreme deprivation (OFSTED May 2010)
• The pupils who access the programme achieve beyond their expectations, school data
• Over 160 families per year have benefited from the programme outside of normal class time eg residential and holiday programme. This has led to improved relationships within families and between school and families
• Whole school benefits from programme as the scheme is embedded within and throughout the curriculum
• Impact on behaviour throughout school, learners engaged on programme become role models back in classroom. They have increased self-esteem, confidence and social skills
• Staff embraced the programme by CPD becoming qualified to lead variety of activities
• Barriers to learning have been removed at all levels 
• Pupils, staff and volunteers have nationally recognised qualifications in rock climbing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking 

Rationale / Start Point

Westfield school recognises that some pupils present social, emotional and behavioural difficulties; which creates barriers to learning and prevents them from achieving their full potential.

During the programme children develop the self-confidence and skills to successfully engage with education, make relationships, learn enterprising behaviour plus deal with significant changes and challenges – these skills are then brought back within the school setting raising attainment, aspirations and wellbeing.

Children on the scheme can also achieve national qualifications such as the British Canoe Union 1 star kayak award; Royal Yachting Association level 1 sailing award and the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme.
 

Key Strategies

• Whole school approach, ethos and philosophy very clear
• Enthusiastic Lead Professional, who has developed the activities and constantly looks to expand the programme
• Headteacher fully supportive
• Programmes developed over time, venues for activities tried and tested
• Programmes tailored to needs of pupils on individual basis - not one size fits all
• Careful referral system, available from all professionals within school, teachers, support staff and families
• Extensive monitoring and evaluation of all activities
• Impact on pupils and families assessed through follow up evaluations
• ABL programme constantly under review to see how improvements can be made and how to manage extending the programme by ensuring whole school involvement and expanding activities available
• Key strategy is sustainability of programme

Sustainability and Further Development

• Further extend range of activities on offer
• Train more members to staff, volunteers and past pupils to become activity leaders
• Encourage more participation in activities from other schools and communities
• Continue to work with outside agencies to develop community links 
• Develop and enhance links with high school to ease transition
• Embed ABL throughout curriculum so that it becomes an entitlement for all pupils
• Develop outdoor environment to include orienteering cores, outdoor classroom
• Become an adventure based learning school