Outdoor Activities Team passes inspection with flying colours

The inspection was carried out by Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) and the team met expectations in all aspects of the service, including:

• Health and safety protocols.
• The qualifications, expertise and experience of staff.
• The quality of activities and their educational value.
• Planning and risk management.
• Communication and participant welfare.
• Inclusion and accessibility.

The team organises regular residential visits to the Lake District for schools in Hartlepool and the wider Tees Valley and provides a full activity programme for pupils throughout their stay, with activities including rock climbing, hiking and canoeing.

The LOtC inspection is an essential assessment process for organisations that facilitate outdoor learning and adventure activities, ensuring that teams comply with industry standards and best practice.

Outdoor Activities Participation Manager Adam Reah said: “We are incredibly proud of our team and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

“The feedback that we got from the inspectors was fantastic, with one even remarking that it was nice to be able to leave an operation with the feeling there wasn’t anything they could easily contribute to improve the quality of delivery.”

Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult and Community Based Services Committee, said: “I would like to congratulate the team on its success in this inspection which is testament to their dedication to safety, education and the overall well-being of participants.

“This achievement not only reflects the team’s professionalism and expertise but also underscores the value of outdoor learning in developing participants’ skills, confidence and resilience.”

More information about what the Council’s Outdoor Activities Team is able to offer is available at summerhill.enquiries@hartlepool.gov.uk or (01429) 284584.

Steve Hilton

Senior Communications