Adventurous Activities (Provider-Led)

Overview

Adventurous activities are memorable, exciting, challenging experiences, usually outdoors, that involve a level of managed risk. When thoughtfully planned and well delivered, they can have a lasting impact on young people’s confidence, teamwork and resilience.

These activities are often the highlight of a visit. They promote active engagement, support different learning styles and help participants develop decision-making and risk-awareness skills. Well-chosen adventurous activities are a natural and valuable part of education.

Planning and Approval

If your visit includes adventurous activities, follow your normal visit planning procedures.

Before confirming arrangements, ensure you:

• Gain approval from your Head/Manager
• Seek approval from your Educational Visits Adviser or Employer (where required)
• Obtain informed parental consent, supported by clear and detailed information
• Prepare participants appropriately for the activities involved

If you are unsure at any stage, seek advice early from your Educational Visits Adviser.

Working with External Providers

Where school staff are not delivering the activity, you may use freelance instructors, outdoor centres, or privately owned, charitable or public-sector providers.

As Visit Leader, you remain in overall charge of the visit.

Before booking, make sure the provider:

• Holds the LOtC Quality Badge or has completed a satisfactory Provider Form
• Holds required accreditation (for example, an AALA licence where applicable)
• Has favourable reviews on Kaddi.com
• Has clear health and safety and emergency procedures
• Uses competent, experienced and appropriately vetted staff
• Holds adequate public liability insurance

Agree roles and responsibilities in advance, particularly around supervision and welfare.

Your Role During Activities

The expectation is that you remain in overall charge and that school staff accompany participants wherever possible. Your presence provides reassurance, supports learning, builds rapport, allows you to monitor provision and enables you to assist with individual needs and in emergencies.

For specialist activities, provider staff may act as Activity Leaders. Even then, your oversight remains important.

Further Reading

OEAP National Guidance available at https://oeapng.info

A list of adventurous activities is available in Appendix B