Pioneer Centre – Action Centres UK

What will students see and do?

Located on the edge of the Wyre Forest, Pioneer delivers a wide range of outdoor learning activities from its 25-acre site – from abseiling and archery to fencing and circus skills.

The centre offers several different school packages, ranging from single-night trips to four-night stays. There are also residentials designed for SAT exam preparation, as well as UCAS application guidance visits.

The Pioneer team can also create a custom package to the meet the specific needs and budget of your group.

The en-suite accommodation on offer at the centre can sleep between 12 and 300 guests and is recognised as being excellent value for money. The site is Canadian themed, bringing the traditional wilderness camp concept to the West Midlands.

Pioneer has been awarded a Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge, in recognition of the quality of the educational outcomes delivered.

How does the trip link to the curriculum?

The centre aims to develop soft skills and social competencies. There are more than 15 activities on offer, each of which has clear educational objectives.

In the abseiling activity, students learn how to control their descent down the custom abseiling wall. This activity develops independent thinking, knowledge and resilience.

The aerial trek activity is a challenging course set 30 feet above ground, featuring tightropes and swing bridges. It builds communication, teamwork and independent thinking skills.

The archery workshop takes place at the indoor firing range. There, students are introduced to the proper techniques before trying them out. The activity develops numeracy, knowledge and independent thinking.

The ‘big bounce’ course is an inflatable challenge, with a variety of versatile activities, completely adapted to your group. They develop physical and social skills and are always a hit with pupils.

No Canadian-themed residential school trip would be complete without a campfire. This evening activity encourages bonding and relaxation in the group, and it develops social and communication skills.

The indoor caving system invites students to test their limits while exploring the caves and solving the problems they encounter. Once children are comfortable with the unusual environment, games are introduced. Caving develops teamwork, resilience and communication abilities.

Challenge courses are a great way for small groups to work together to tackle obstacles. This activity boosts physical, teamwork and communication skills.

Circus skills workshops are not only fun but also develop students’ motor skills and coordination. Through this kinaesthetic learning approach, children can also improve their knowledge, independent thinking and social skills.

Climbing takes place at the centre’s purpose-built climbing wall, and students start by learning how to belay their peers safely. Once all participants are confident, games and challenges can begin, and these build resilience, teamwork and knowledge.

A disco is always popular with children, and the centre’s custom playlists and disco lighting are a great way for students to let off steam and develop their social skills.

Fencing is an opportunity for participants to develop their physical skills and independent thinking. Qualified instructors introduce students to the sport and its philosophy, and all equipment is provided.

In the low-ropes and high-ropes courses, small groups work together to traverse a challenging course, while solving problems and supporting their peers. Skills developed include communication, teamwork and independent thinking.

The nightline activity also sees small groups overcoming obstacles, only while wearing blackout goggles to restrict their vision. This gets students working with their other senses, meaning communication abilities are more important than ever.

Raft building introduces students to rope skills, problem-solving and resource management. Once they’ve constructed a raft from barrels and ropes, they put it to the test!

Finally, the zip wire is designed to challenge children’s fears and get adrenaline flowing. Students encourage their peers and develop leadership and resilience in this activity.

Subjects covered

Details of risk assessment

Risk assessments for each activity are available to download from the Pioneer Centre website. If you need to create additional risk assessments, centre staff are on hand to assist you.

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