YMCA Outdoor Education is a tailored programme that uses outdoor challenge to help young people grow in confidence, communication, teamwork and wellbeing. Delivered through The Zone Youth Project
and underpinned by YMCA Robin Hood’s Developmental Relationships Pathway, it’s more than a one-off trip – it’s a structured, small-group programme that builds belonging and engagement over time.
What the Programme Offers
- Commissioned 4–6 week programmes for small groups of up to 8 young people
- Taster days / enrichment days (including the mobile climbing wall option)
- Outdoor challenge used to build confidence, resilience, communication and teamwork
- Relationship-led delivery underpinned by YMCA’s Developmental Relationships Pathway
- Transport and equipment provided, delivered by qualified staff with robust safeguarding and quality assurance
- A practical, school-ready programme designed around the needs of each cohort
How we help young people thrive
- Helps young people feel more confident, connected and capable
- Supports belonging, positive behaviour and stronger relationships
- Builds life skills that transfer back into school life: communication, teamwork, accountability and resilience
Underpinned by Developmental Relationships
Young people thrive when they experience a strong web of trusted relationships in their lives. That’s why Outdoor Education is intentionally delivered through the five elements of YMCA’s Developmental Relationships Pathway:
- Express Care: young people feel known, valued and encouraged
- Challenge Growth: they are stretched safely and supported to learn from setbacks
- Provide Support: clear structure, boundaries and coaching help them succeed
- Share Power: young people have voice, choice and opportunities to lead
- Expand Possibilities: new experiences, places and positive role models broaden horizons
Outdoor challenge is the vehicle; relationships are the method; wellbeing outcomes are the goal.
How it Works
- Connection & planning: a first session builds trust, agrees group values and sets personal goals
- Weekly outdoor sessions: challenge and reflection develop confidence, teamwork and communication
- Trusted adult support: clear structure, encouragement and consistent routines help young people feel safe and capable
- Celebration & next steps: the final session recognises progress and suggests progression options
Why Schools Choose Our Outdoor Education Programmes
Small Groups
Tailored for groups of up to 8, helping each young person feel known, supported and able to take part.
Challenge with Care
Outdoor experiences that stretch young people in a safe, structured and supportive way – building confidence without leaving anyone behind.
Progression Over Time
A term-based programme that builds confidence, relationships and wellbeing week by week, not a one-off high adrenaline day.
Commissioning Options for Schools & Services
Whether you’re looking for a one-off enrichment experience or a longer-term programme, we can tailor outdoor education to meet the needs of your young people and the outcomes you want to achieve.
Commissioned Term Programme
Our core offer. A 4–6 week programme for small groups of up to 8 young people, including transport, equipment and a final celebration session.
Taster & Enrichment Days
A one-off outdoor experience designed around your group’s needs, helping young people try something new and build confidence.
Targeted Intervention Cohorts
Programmes designed to support outcomes such as belonging, engagement, confidence, wellbeing and positive relationships.
Progression Programmes
A next-step opportunity for young people ready to build leadership skills, independence and wider aspirations through outdoor learning.
Safety & Quality Assurance
Our outdoor education team works to robust safeguarding and risk management standards. Staff are appropriately trained for the activities delivered and hold enhanced DBS checks. We also hold a valid AALA licence, ensuring our policies align with industry best practice.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Harry’s story
Harry is 17 and lives in YMCA Supported Housing. When he first joined Outdoor Education, he was quiet, withdrawn and found it hard to engage. The team started with relationship first – a relaxed introductory day, time to get to know each other, and real ownership so Harry could help shape what came next.
Through consistent support, shared activities and opportunities to lead, Harry began to open up and connect with others. Over time, he built confidence, communication skills and healthier routines.
“I didn’t think I’d enjoy it, but it felt good to be listened to. I actually had a laugh – and I’d do it again.”
Our current projects
Carers Federation
We are currently supporting young carers from Nottinghamshire with outdoor opportunities on Saturdays. Our aim is to build confidence and introduce young people to new sports and clubs where they can continue to engage in the outdoor environment.
‘Reach’ project
We partner with this local organisation to deliver programmes including Archery and Canoeing programmes for disabled adults in Nottinghamshire County.
Access to Nature
Funded by the Government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund, Access to Nature is an outdoor education developmental programme designed to progress participants and help them onto the next stage of education/training/employment.
To enquire about commissioned programmes, taster days and targeted cohorts, please visit The Zone Youth Project – our primary site for Outdoor Education information and enquiries.
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