Outdoor Education

The exciting and challenging co - curricular programme of events at Downside includes a wide range of adventure-based activities.

We believe that adventure activities, especially those based outdoors, can make a significant contribution to the personal development of children and young people. Benefits such as increased confidence, self- esteem and social awareness, improved teamwork, problem- solving skills, fitness and health, all result in a positive influence on academic studies and mental health.

Adventure activities at Downside include The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, paddle sports, sailing, air rifle shooting, archery, caving, rock climbing, and mountain biking around our extensive grounds. Weekend adventure trips include the Ten Tors challenge and Skern Lodge in Devon.

Most adventure activities take place in the School’s safe and spacious 500 acre rural campus. Sailing and paddle sports usually take place at Cheddar Reservoir and on the river Avon. Younger pupils also learn kayaking skills in the Downside pool.

These activities, along with a wide range of other co - curriculum options, are open to boarders and day pupils alike. There is no cost to parents for any co - curricular activity organised on site, meaning pupils are free to choose as many school-based options as they like.