Outdoor Education

Shiplake College is accredited with NICAS – National Indoor Climbing Award Schemes.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Climbing

Students begin their climbing journey by learning foundational skills such as knot tying (e.g., figure-eight knot), putting on a harness, and basic belaying. They are introduced to climbing on bottom-rope systems, where they can safely practice movement on the wall, focusing on balance, body positioning, and foot placement.

At this stage, climbing is an excellent medium for developing self-confidence as students conquer their initial fears of height and unfamiliar environments. It also encourages teamwork and trust as they depend on their peers to belay them safely.

Year 9-10: Intermediate Techniques and Problem Solving

As students’ progress, they move on to intermediate climbing techniques such as route reading, dynamic moves, and improving grip strength through advanced holds. They may also be introduced to bouldering, which develops problem-solving skills as students work out shorter, more complex routes (or "problems") without a rope.

These years focus on building resilience and mental focus, as climbing increasingly demands both physical and cognitive engagement. Overcoming more challenging climbs helps students deal with fear responses and enhances their decision-making abilities.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Kayaking

Students begin their kayaking journey with the basics, including learning how to correctly hold a paddle, execute forward and reverse strokes, and maintain balance in calm water. They are introduced to basic water safety, self-rescue techniques, and understanding how to navigate using simple manoeuvres like turning and stopping.

At this stage, kayaking builds confidence as students become comfortable on the water. It also fosters awareness of the natural environment and develops teamwork as they practice group activities, such as rafted paddling or small challenges.

Year 9-10: Intermediate Techniques and Leadership

Building on foundational skills, students advance to intermediate techniques like edging, draw strokes, and low-brace turns. They are introduced to paddling in moderate water conditions (e.g., slow-moving rivers) and begin to tackle controlled capsizing and assisted rescues.

These years emphasise problem-solving as students learn to navigate new challenges and apply technical skills to varied environments. Leadership begins to emerge as students are encouraged to take responsibility for helping peers and planning short paddling routes.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Canoeing

Students begin with the fundamentals of canoeing, including basic paddling techniques such as forward, reverse, and J-strokes. They learn how to enter and exit a canoe safely, maintain balance, and navigate calm water. Safety skills, including capsize drills and understanding buoyancy aids, are also introduced.

At this stage, canoeing fosters confidence, coordination, and a growing appreciation for teamwork as students often work in pairs to paddle effectively.

Year 9-10: Intermediate Skills and Group Challenges

Students advance to intermediate canoeing techniques, such as sweep strokes, prying, and draw strokes, to improve steering and manoeuvrability. They also develop an understanding of ferry gliding and controlling their canoe in slow-moving rivers. Activities like canoe-based challenges or relay games are incorporated to encourage group interaction.

This level emphasises collaboration and problem-solving, as students must communicate and coordinate to navigate together effectively. They begin to develop leadership skills by planning and organising small group activities.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Mountain Biking

Students start with the fundamentals of mountain biking, including proper bike handling, balance, and basic riding techniques such as braking, shifting gears, and cornering. They learn how to ride safely on beginner trails and flat terrain, focusing on developing confidence and control. Safety practices, such as helmet fitting and bike checks, are also emphasised.

At this stage, mountain biking promotes coordination, self-confidence, and an appreciation for outdoor activity.

Year 9-10: Developing Skills and Trail Challenges

Students’ progress to intermediate skills, such as navigating uneven terrain, basic technical climbs and descents, and understanding body positioning for different trail conditions. They begin riding moderate trails that involve small obstacles, requiring quick decision-making and adaptability.

This stage enhances resilience and problem-solving as students learn to handle increasingly complex challenges. They also strengthen teamwork by participating in group rides, where they support and encourage one another.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Archery

Students are introduced to the basics of archery, including proper stance, bow handling, and aiming techniques. They learn the mechanics of drawing, anchoring, and releasing the arrow, focusing on consistency and safety procedures. Early lessons include shooting at close-range targets to build confidence and accuracy.

This stage fosters focus, discipline, and self-confidence, as students develop foundational skills and a sense of achievement from improving their precision.

Year 9-10: Developing Technique and Accuracy

Students advance to refining their form, learning techniques such as string alignment, gap shooting, and adjusting aim for varying distances. They practice shooting at different target sizes and ranges, improving precision and control. Students may also begin to explore scoring systems and participate in friendly competitions to encourage a sense of challenge and progress.

This level promotes concentration, resilience, and goal setting, as students strive for consistency and improve through practice.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Air Rifle Shooting

Students learn the basics of air rifle safety, proper handling, and understanding the mechanics of the rifle. They are introduced to correct shooting posture, breathing techniques, and how to align the sights with the target. Practice begins at short ranges with fixed targets to build confidence and foundational skills.

This stage fosters self-discipline, focus, and responsibility, as students adhere to safety protocols and practice consistency.

Year 9-10: Developing Precision and Technique

At this level, students refine their shooting technique, including trigger control, sight adjustments, and managing recoil. They start shooting at varied distances and sizes of targets, improving accuracy and adaptability. Team shooting exercises may be introduced, encouraging camaraderie and cooperation.

This phase promotes patience, resilience, and self-improvement, as students strive to refine their precision through practice and constructive feedback.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Bushcraft Basics

Students begin with foundational skills such as shelter building, fire lighting with flint and steel, and basic knot tying. They are taught how to safely handle tools like knives and saws and are introduced to concepts of outdoor safety and environmental awareness. These activities are designed to build confidence and a sense of independence in a natural environment.

This stage fosters self-reliance, teamwork, and respect for nature, as students gain hands-on experience and begin to connect with the outdoor world.

Year 9-10: Developing Advanced Skills and Practical Knowledge

Students’ progress to more advanced techniques, such as cooking over an open fire, carving tools, purifying water, traps and learning about plant and tree identification for foraging. They might also learn navigation using maps and compasses and practice building more complex shelters. Group challenges are introduced to encourage collaboration and problem-solving.

This phase promotes resilience, problem-solving, and leadership, as students begin to take ownership of their skills and tackle more challenging outdoor scenarios.

Year 7-8: Introduction to Orienteering Basics

Students begin with the basics of orienteering and volunteering skills, such as learning how to read a map, understanding symbols, and using a compass. They will follow a set course in a controlled area, developing essential map-reading and orientation skills. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to set their own courses, encouraging creativity and teamwork as they challenge one another’s groups in navigational tasks.

This stage builds confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, as students start to engage in the process of planning, executing, and leading basic orienteering challenges.

Year 9-10: Developing Navigation Skills and Strategy

At this stage, students learn how to use a compass, pace themselves, and plan a basic route. They will apply these skills on more complex courses, where they must consider factors like terrain difficulty and time management. Group challenges are introduced, fostering collaboration and requiring students to work together to navigate more challenging courses.

This phase promotes decision-making, teamwork, and strategic thinking, as students navigate increasingly difficult courses and learn to adapt to changing conditions.

Our skiing trips welcome students of all abilities, from complete beginners to more experienced skiers. For beginners, the focus will be on fundamental skills, such as balance, turning, and stopping on gentle slopes. Intermediate skiers will refine techniques like carving, edge control, and speed management on moderate terrain. Advanced skiers will tackle more challenging slopes, improving control and mastering advanced techniques for varying snow conditions.

Skiing not only develops physical skills but also helps students build confidence, resilience, and teamwork, as they learn to support each other on the slopes. Regardless of experience level, all students will grow both as skiers and individuals, with skiing offering a unique opportunity for personal development, fitness, and social bonding.

Supporting Personal Growth Through Skiing:

Skiing is a great medium for developing confidence, teamwork, and resilience. For beginners, it’s about building the confidence to control their movement on the slopes. For intermediate skiers, it’s about overcoming fears and improving their technique. Advanced skiers focus on mastering skills and pushing their limits. Skiing as a sport promotes physical fitness and mental toughness, helping students to develop a positive mindset that can carry over into all areas of life.

Every other year, advanced skiers have the opportunity to compete in the Independent Schools Ski Championships. This event is designed for skiers who have reached a higher level of proficiency, focusing on refining technique, increasing speed, and competing against other schools. The championships provide a platform for students to challenge themselves and test their skills in a competitive environment, encouraging self-discipline, focus, and sportsmanship.

This event is ideal for those who have mastered the basics and intermediate techniques and are looking for a more competitive and challenging skiing experience. It offers a chance to represent the school, push personal limits, and engage in a team-based environment while competing with other talented skiers.

Supporting Personal Growth Through Skiing:

Skiing is a great medium for developing confidence, teamwork, and resilience. For beginners, it’s about building the confidence to control their movement on the slopes. For intermediate skiers, it’s about overcoming fears and improving their technique. Advanced skiers focus on mastering skills and pushing their limits. Skiing as a sport promotes physical fitness and mental toughness, helping students to develop a positive mindset that can carry over into all areas of life.