Engaging learners with low self-esteem and those with negative behaviour enabling them to reach their potential

Combining an ‘Adventure Club’ with mentoring, pastoral care and support, enabling targeted young people to enjoy and achieve in their learning experience

Mark Goldring AST PE & Psychology Comberton Village CollegeCambridge

In summary: how one school has used ‘Adventurous Activities’ to help and support some of our most needy and vulnerable students

Bear Gyrlls Chasing a shark - Man vs Wild [clipnabber.com].flv

School context

High achieving

87% A*-C

77% Including Maths and English

50% EBacc

High CVA (1035)

‘Adventure Club’The evolving process7 Years – 1 Group2012 – 4 Groups

Key Aims:

Development of:1. Self-esteem2. Achievement motivation3. Personal responsibility (positive work habits)4. Positive attitudes towards school5. Interaction skills6*. Positive behaviour (greater awareness)

2 GroupsChallengers & Explorers

ProcessLiaison with HOY & TutorsMeeting with pupilsLetters to parentsStart training sessions

Year 8 (24 pupils)

5 training sessions & one-day trip

3 day expedition (Edale, Derbyshire)

Year 9 (24 pupils)

1 x 50 minute lesson every fortnight2 x 1 day-tripsActivity week trip, 4 nights

What next….BTEC Sport OAA option

Additional tripsDofE (for some)

Impact

School report dataGenerally positive (not in all cases)Measures of attainment and effort

Quantitative Data?

Impact 2

Feedback from tutorsFeedback from parentsFeedback from pupils

Qualitative - much more positive

Support provided

Regular meetings and mentor sessions

Focus AreasLearning-2-Learn Skills

5 AbilitiesGoal Setting

Views of IntelligenceCompetition

Other positive outcomes

Advances in PE curriculum KS3/4 Partnerships•Other departments •DofE•LA providers (counselling service) •Partner schools•HE (Cambridge University)

Specific Challenges

• Parental engagement• Student engagement• Perception/Image • Costs• Support• What next?

Where to start?

•Key staff (including admin)

•Target groups

•Time allocation

•Financial allocation (cost/benefit analysis)

•Training

•‘With the end in mind’ – what would you like to achieve?

Questions?

Lunch??

Bear Grylls Eats Best moments [clipnabber.com].flv

Benefits of Adventurous Activities

Positive change through:•Change of environment- independence/inter-dependence•Leadership abilities•Unity and belonging•Overcoming fear (comfort/adventure/panic)•Improve self-esteem•Essential life skills- ‘Classroom without walls’