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Lower School Adventure

We describe our adventure education programmes in the Lower School as 'Accessible Adventure'.  These programmes consist of larger numbers of pupils having short experiences that serve as an introduction to adventure and to various activities.

Not only are these important educational experiences in their own right, but they also act as a gateway to “high adventure” for those that enjoy them and find them rewarding.

Typically, examples might be the opportunity to learn to kayak on the Kennet and Avon canal, camp in the school grounds, or undertake a night hike on Salisbury Plain.

Adventurous Education
Moonrakers

The Moonrakers Programme has been running at Dauntsey's for over 50 years.  Designed specifically for the Third Form, the programme runs every Friday afternoon and works to develop resilience, teamwork, self-confidence and life skills for all pupils.  

Activities included in the programme range from outdoor cooking, kayaking and first aid, to expedition skills, sailing and sub-aqua diving. In the summer, all pupils attend a week-long Moonrakers Camp in Aberdovey, North Wales.  A memorable week that brings together all that has been learnt throughout the year.

First Form

Introduction to Adventure

At the start of their first year, all pupils attend a local outdoor centre for an overnight stay followed by an action-packed day of activities such as: climbing, fire lighting and a high and low ropes course. The aim of this trip is to help everyone to get to know each other in a relaxed, fun and challenging environment.

Second Form

Challenge Week

At the end of the Second Form, all pupils will take part in the annual Challenge Week.  The week involves rowing skiffs and sailing on Jolie Brise, kayaking and canoeing down the Kennet and Avon Canal, climbing and rope work activities, learning how to survive and live off the land, and an expedition with an overnight camp at the Manor. 

Arctic Adventure

Staying in a cabin on the edge of the Arctic Circle, our Second Form pupils can opt to spend a week in the sub-zero temperatures of this beautiful area experiencing cross country skiing, snow-shoeing, dog sledding, ice fishing, as well as spending time in a Swedish school. In addition, they are also responsible for shopping, cooking, and cleaning for themselves all week, making this a true expedition experience. 

Third Form

Moonrakers

This is a programme of outdoor and adventurous activities run on a Friday afternoon for all Third Form pupils. Activities include: outdoor cooking, kayaking, cycling, first aid, expedition skills, navigation, orienteering, indoor climbing, sailing, shooting, survival, river crossing, sub-aqua and archery. 

Introduction to Sailing

Dinghy Sailing Academies are also run on the Isle of Wight for Second and Third Form pupils to introduce them to sailing, here pupils also have their first experience of sailing on the Jolie Brise.