Kents young people - Adventures await

The environment

Camping, outdoor residentials, rock climbing, and animal care helped children, including those experiencing deprivation and with limited access to the outdoors, develop a stronger connection with nature and understand the importance of protecting the environment. Through activities such as fire making, climbing, camping, and zoo visits, they learned to respect natural spaces, wildlife, and habitats, whilst experiencing joy and play. These experiences encouraged environmentally responsible behaviours, increased awareness of conservation, and inspired children to value and care for the natural world in the future by experiencing what is has to offer them.

The local economy

Our project helped the local economy by investing in young people and giving them the opportunity to develop skills, confidence, and resilience that will benefit them throughout their lives. By taking part in new experiences and challenges, they gained valuable life skills that can help them progress into further education, training, volunteering, and future employment. We believe that investing in youth empowerment today means investing in the future of our community. With their newfound confidence and skills, these young people are better placed to make meaningful contributions to Kent in the years ahead. Whether that's through continuing their education, entering the workplace, volunteering, or becoming active members of their communities, the impact of these experiences can be long-lasting.

Volunteering, jobs & education

This project gave young people the chance to try lots of new experiences, from learning about nature and water sports safety to taking part in a variety of outdoor activities. Throughout the programme, they were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, build new skills, and gain confidence in themselves and their abilities. A big part of what we do is helping young people develop resilience, confidence, and the life skills they need to move forward positively into further education, training, or the world of work. It was great to see participants grow in confidence, support one another, and take on new challenges during the breakaway. We were also supported by four volunteers who attended the trip. Their help was invaluable in supporting the young people throughout the activities. The experience also gave the volunteers an opportunity to learn new skills, spend time outdoors, gain experience working with young people, and give something back to their community.

Arts, culture & heritage

The residential helped children develop a greater appreciation of England's natural landscapes and outdoor heritage through immersive experiences at the PGL centre. By exploring woodlands, lakes, and open countryside, taking part in activities such as campfires, nature walks, climbing, and orienteering, participants gained a better understanding of the natural environment and the importance of caring for it. For many children, this was their first opportunity to spend extended time in the countryside, helping them build a lasting connection with England's outdoor spaces and encouraging future participation in outdoor recreation.

Activity, health and leisure

The residential provided children with the opportunity to participate in a wide range of new physical activities, undertaking several hours of vigorous exercise each day. This promoted both their physical health and mental wellbeing while introducing them to activities they had not previously experienced. The programme sparked curiosity and enthusiasm for active lifestyles, encouraging children to continue participating in leisure activities beyond the residential. Shared experiences also created opportunities for children to support and encourage one another, building self-confidence, resilience, teamwork, and lasting friendships in a positive and inclusive environment.