Radnor House recognises the importance of outdoor learning as a tool to develop resilience, perseverance and mental toughness.

Following on from Forest School and Bushcraft classes in the Prep, our senior students in Years 7 and 8 take part in a series of camping expeditions. Under the watchful eye of Mr Barham (our resident Bear Grylls) pupils take on individual and team challenges, brush up on their navigation skills and learn to prepare their own meals in the wild.

In Year 7 all pupils will take part in the Challenge weekend in September and a weekend expedition in April/May in the local area. Year 8 pupils will all attend a weekend expedition in September/October in Seven Sisters country park, along with an expedition in March/April in the Brecon Beacons for the weekend. 

These trips provide a fantastic foundation for the demands of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which is a significant part of the curriculum in Year 9. Pupils initially embark upon their Bronze Award with most continuing to complete their Silver and Gold Awards in later years.

With universities and employers increasingly valuing these softer skills, we believe that outdoor learning is a vital tool in helping pupils succeed in life after school while also nurturing a love for the outdoors.