Many young people in the UK do not engage with the traditional education system and find themselves marginalised, unable to learn or demonstrate skills, and without the self confidence or motivation to chose a positive path in life.

Young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, without positive role models and support from peers or family, are especially vulnerable and unlikely to reach their potential. Innovative programmes are required to give such young people life-skills and demonstrate an alternative path to success. Giving them the motivation to succeed will have benefits not only for themselves, but for the school community and wider society.

The Challenger Trust gives young people the opportunity to learn skills and realise their potential in a supportive but challenging environment. Concentrating on life skills rather than academic achievement, our courses give young people the confidence and motivation to broaden their horizons and aspirations and make positive choices in their lives.

Outdoor Education has long been proved to achieve these aims, and is promoted by the DfES in the Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto. According to the DfES, “Staying away for a few days or more is a powerful way of developing key life skills, building confidence, self esteem, communication and team working. For instance through staying at a field centre, outdoor or adventure centre……. By helping young people apply their knowledge across a range of challenges, learning outside the classroom builds bridges between theory and reality, schools and communities, young people and their futures”.