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Outdoor Work

Outdoor work on the school estate is available to students in the afternoon, and can be taken as an alternative to games.

Year 9 (Block 3)

All students have a short introduction to Outdoor Work as part of the induction programme. The work is varied; students might undertake particular projects, such as building barns, making a pond or creating natural sculptures. Otherwise they might, seasonally, make jam or chutney, plant trees, do hedging work, or, continually, undertake gardening and livestock management tasks. There is also a weekly opportunity to bake bread.

Years 10 & 11 (Blocks 4 & 5)

The Bedales Assessed Course in Outdoor Work is entirely different from other courses.  The success of the student is dependent upon the degree of effort and enthusiasm with which they approach the course, their reaction to the challenges which arise, and the execution of a practical project.  It is a course which values and evaluates personal qualities, rather than academic abilities.

The first two terms will consist of a Foundation Course, in which students will learn and improve practical skills. During the final three terms, students will apply themselves to a particular project of their own choosing, either on an individual or group basis. Projects have included renovation of a gypsy caravan, renovating a 1957 tractor, creating a herb/water garden, managing bees, carving totem poles, building a chicken house, recreating a bronze-age kiln, and blacksmithing. Sessions will be timetabled at four daytime periods per week.

The emphasis of the course is on a more rounded education and the personal skills which are needed in the work place. It should enable the student to be viewed in a broader perspective than is generally available to potential employers and University selection boards.

Assessment

Students will be permitted a generous degree of freedom as to how the project is presented. They may wish to maintain a log-book or keep a photographic record of events. Others will present the finished product and verbally discuss their thoughts and objectives. In all cases the emphasis will be on the observation of the students at work, looking at their commitment, enthusiasm, attainment in practical skills, social interaction, co-operation, initiative and creativity.

External assessment will be achieved by observing the student at work, interview and looking at the practical achievements, together with any reports or diaries.

Sixth Form

Sixth Form students who do not wish to participate in the games programme can opt to participate in the Outdoor Work programme or help in the school's theatre or wardrobe.

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