Outdoor education

Dorset County Council's Outdoor Education Service offers a wide range of tailor-made learning experiences at its four diverse centres. Further opportunities, including our mobile climbing wall, can also be provided at your venue through a visit from our mobile team. Our Centres offer day visits and residential courses to groups and individuals of all ages.

You can kayak along the Jurassic Coast, sail in the 2012 Olympic waters, camp in beautiful woodland, spend the night in a Grade II listed manor house or experience life from the past in a Viking Longhouse.

To find out more please click on the links below.

"Every young person should experience the world beyond the classroom as an essential part of learning and personal development, whatever their age, abilities or circumstances."
Manifesto for Learning Outside the Classroom

A. Ancient Technology Centre, Cranborne

This inspiring educational Centre comprises numerous reconstructed buildings from throughout history. They have been built with the help of more than 80,000 Dorset school students and older volunteers.

B. Carey Outdoor Education Centre

Carey is a day and residential centre, one of four within the Outdoor Education Service. It is open all year to school and youth groups of all ages (see links to the left for further information).

C. Leeson House Field Studies Centre

Leeson House Field Studies Centre is located in Langton Matravers, about a mile from Swanage, on the Isle of Purbeck. It is also within easy walking distance of the World Heritage coastline.

D. Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre

Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre (WOEC) is the Dorset County Council centre for land and water based outdoor activities: sailing, kayaking, rock climbing and team development. We are open all year round and provide opportunities for people of all ages.

E. Mobile climbing wall

Enjoy the thrill of climbing on your own doorstep! Our mobile climbing wall provides a high profile activity that will act as the focus of your special event. Available for hire by schools, youth groups and businesses (for corporate events) or anyone!

Planning a visit to one of our centres

This information relates to planning a visit at any of our four centres, if you are a Dorset County Council school or youth centre.

Policy of Safety and Guidance - Outdoor Education

This advice is an updated version of the first edition published in May 1997 and responds to the many local and national changes to guidance and legislation.

Service Manager

Rob Brindley

Tel: 01305 224517

Email: r.c.brindley@dorsetcc.gov.uk

Full details for Service Manager

Admin and Marketing Officer

Marnie Shaw

Tel: 01305 224517

Email: m.shaw@dorsetcc.gov.uk

Full details for Admin and Marketing Officer