Coasteering
Coasteering for schools
Coasteering in Dorset is undoubtedly one of the best ways to explore the Jurassic Coastline. During our school coasteering sessions, groups have the chance to scramble over rocky outcrops, climb low level rock formations, explore sea caves and experience the thrill of jumping from cliffs into the sea. This is a high energy activity, which rewards students with a sense of accomplishment as they navigate the rocky terrain and push the boundaries of their comfort zone.
All of our sessions are led by our team of highly trained and experienced instructors, who work with students to overcome their fears and try new things. We operate a strict ‘challenge by choice‘ ethos, which encourages young people to set their own boundaries and choose the height from which they want to jump. Students will never be forced to do anything they are not comfortable with and we pride ourselves on our ability to work with the students to accomplish their own personal challenges.
KEY INFO
- Explore the Jurassic Coast in a unique way
- Scramble over rocks and jump into the sea
- Challenge yourself in a safe and supportive environment
Primary and secondary schools
One of the best things about choosing this fun-filled outdoor activity for your school adventure trip is that it can be adapted to suit the needs of each group. This means that we’re able able to offer coasteering trips for Key Stage 2, 3 and 4 as well as college and university groups.
Coasteering is often students favourite outdoor adventure activity during their school residential trip in Dorset. We love nothing more than watching school and youth groups thrive as they embrace this activity and challenge themselves to try new things, which they previously may have thought impossible.
Safety first
At Cumulus Outdoors the safety of our coasteering participants is paramount and we go above and beyond to ensure we meet and in most cases exceed the required health and safety standards. All participants will receive a thorough safety briefing before the activity takes place and are issued the very best equipment. This includes 5mm wetsuits, buoyancy aid and helmet to use during their time in the water.
Learning outcomes
As well as being a fun adventure activity where students can discover the coastline in a safe and managed way, there are a number of learning outcomes that can be taken from a coasteering session with Cumulus Outdoors. These learning outcomes can be built upon and support work within the classroom.
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Geography
Coasteering takes place at Dancing Ledge, which forms part of the Jurassic Coast – England’s only natural World Heritage Site. The site was once a former Portland Stone quarry and an important part of the Isle of Purbeck’s cultural heritage. On the 20 minute walk to the coasteering site our instructors will give a brief overview of this picturesque part of the Dorset coastline. Student’s will get the chance to see caves, ledges, quarries and both man-made and natural coastal features.
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Environmental Awareness
Students will learn about the ocean environment and see real life examples of how climate change is affecting the local area. We try to teach cool facts about the different wildlife that calls the Dorset coast home and give an overview of how we impact the environment. We care deeply about our natural surroundings and encourage students to treat the beauty spot in a responsible and respectful way. ‘Leave nothing but footprints’ is our motto when exploring the Dorset coast and countryside.
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Communication & confidence
Good verbal communication skills are essential in order to deliver and understand instructions quickly and accurately. Being able to communicate effectively is an important life skill, which many students develop during their time at our residential centre or tented villages. Team work plays a vital role in our coasteering sessions. We encourage students to support each other as they overcome personal challenges. More often than not we see students confidence grow throughout the session and it’s always humbling to see the positive peer support that they give each other.
Get in touch
Start planning your bespoke school residential trip itinerary today!
Coasteering FAQs
Where can I find your coasteering certificates?
If you would like to see all our coasteering information, including risk assessments, policies, emergency procedures, insurance and affiliation certification, please ask. You will be sent a link to our website with a password to access and download as much as you need.
Are you insured for coasteering?
Yes, we are insured for coasteering and we have £10 million public liability insurance. We are accredited by: Institute of Outdoor Learning, National Coasteering Charter, Adventure Activities Licensing Service, DofE Approved Activity Provider and Learning Outside the Classroom.
Do students need to be able to swim for coasteering?
Yes, they need to be able to swim 350m to participate in a coasteering session. Don’t forgot, this is with a wetsuit and buoyancy aid on which provides a huge amount of buoyancy. We basically are requiring them to be confident in the water and be able to move forward. Please note that students will be required to swim in moving water and braking waves.
What happens if there is bad weather before coasteering?
If the wind or swell is too strong for coasteering, we will let you know at least 2 days in advance to arrange something land-based, such as rock climbing. We will always do our best to deliver the activities as per the agreed programme.
What if my child doesn’t want to do coasteering?
During coasteering we challenge the students to participate voluntarily, to push their comfort zone and test themselves. We operate a ‘challenge by choice ethos’, which allows the students to choose the level they are comfortable with.
What is the instructor to participant ratio for coasteering?
2:16. We always have a minimum of two in the water, thereafter, that 1:8.
What kit do students need to bring coasteering?
Swimming costume, towel and training shoes suitable for the water are best for coasteering. Please no flip flops, thin wetsuit shoes or crocs! We will supply a wetsuit, buoyancy aid and helmet. Don’t forget a rucksack for your clothes, snacks, something to drink and any personal medication.
