OA-Nene Valley (OA-NV) has been awarded the Learning Outside the Classroom Silver Award, recognising the academy’s fully embedded programme of outdoor and vocational learning.
The award celebrates provisions that provide meaningful experiences beyond the classroom, and OA-NV was recognised for its highly structured, inclusive and impactful approach that reaches every student.
A key strength is our weekly off-site outdoor learning programme, offered to all students at no cost. Activities including climbing, kayaking, surfing, mountain biking and woodland exploration are designed to build confidence, resilience, teamwork and practical life skills. This consistent, curriculum-wide offer aligns closely with the core principles of Learning Outside the Classroom.
Alongside outdoor adventure learning, the academy has developed strong vocational pathways. Through its weekly partnership with the Gauntlet Auto Project, pupils develop mechanical and engineering skills through hands-on vehicle maintenance and real-world problem-solving. This practical approach supports career readiness while strengthening engagement in learning.
Personal development is further embedded through universal participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award for all Year 10 and Year 11 students. The programme promotes leadership, community engagement, physical development and resilience through volunteering, skills development and expeditions.
Together, these opportunities - alongside many other outdoor and enrichment experiences - demonstrate a whole-school commitment to expanding learning beyond classroom walls. The Silver Award recognises this high-quality, embedded practice and the positive impact it has on student confidence, engagement and future aspirations.
