Enrichment and outdoor learning
An active approach is central to our curriculum. Weekly opportunities to explore Bristol’s rich cultural history include visits to museums, theatres and community spaces. Partnerships with Bristol University and local organisations inspire learners and raise aspirations.
In Year 10, learners take part in our Explore programme, which runs three afternoons each week and provides opportunities to develop key skills such as teamwork, time management, communication and interpersonal skills through a practical and multi-sensory approach. Activities range from mountain biking to fishing, ensuring learners engage in hands-on experiences that build confidence and resilience
As part of this, Explore: Build a Skill allows students to commit to a single activity over a longer period, creating an opportunity to develop a deeper level of skills with the aim of creating a lifelong hobby. Many of our young people face extreme financial hardship and have had limited opportunities to explore enrichment activities. Some have never been on holiday or had the financial support to develop hobbies and interests. We think it is essential that our learners have something to look forward to, have opportunities to build relationships beyond the classroom and have the chance to discover and nurture untapped talents.
By Year 11, learners transition to a more focused vocational pathway, participating in a dedicated vocational afternoon each week. This allows them to explore their personal career aspirations through practical and immersive experiences in the world of work. Additionally, learners take part in our school link programme with the local college, providing them with first-hand experience of a post-16 environment. This prepares them for the transition beyond school and improves their chances of securing and sustaining a suitable post-16 destination.
On Explore, we use the Skills Builder framework not just as a tool for teaching, but as a meaningful way to track and reflect on learner progress. It provides a common language and structure to help students understand the essential skills they are developing Listening, Speaking, Problem Solving, Creativity, Staying Positive, Aiming High, Leadership, and Teamwork , while allowing staff to monitor their progress over time. These skills are widely recognised as the most important skills needed to be successful in the workplace and are therefore essential for our learners to develop to ensure their future success.