'Outdoor learning boosts children's confidence'

A teacher supporting students on their first overnight school trip says outdoor learning is playing a key role in boosting pupils' mental health and confidence.

Charlotte Anthony, a teacher at Sheerhatch Primary School in Bedford, said her pupils were initially nervous about going to Rock UK Frontier Centre, but they had quickly adapted.

The children took part in activities including climbing, archery and bush craft at the site in Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire.

Ms Anthony said: "In the classroom [students] do focused learning but [at Rock UK] they're pushed out of their comfort zone."

She added: "It's really beneficial for their mental health because it allows children to see themselves in a different light."

The centre has hosted school groups since 1922, and aims to promote resilience, wellbeing and personal development through outdoor activity.

Charlie, 10, from Sheerhatch Primary, said: "It was brilliant. I got a break from my sister, who is loud. I did canoeing and everyone was good. We all had happy times."

Classmate Chloe added: "It was really fun… apart from the bottom of the lake, which was slimy."

Another visiting school, Oxford High Prep, took part in a simulated humanitarian aid mission alongside traditional climbing and abseiling activities.

Xiao Ran said: "I find it really fun. You can work as a team better outside."

Emmie, who took on a blindfolded tunnel challenge, admitted she was "really scared" but encouragement from classmates helped her through.

Her friend Alexandra said: "[Emmie] said she didn't want to do it, but she did and I was really proud of her. It's way more fun than school."

Steve Hallet, director of operations at Rock UK, said: "They take that experience back into school where confidence and resilience grow. Years later, they still remember their time here – it stays with them."

BBC Radio Northampton is supporting Headfest, an annual festival focused on mental health wellbeing with an emphasis on schools this year.

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