As we bring another summer season to a close, we’re incredibly proud to have supported more than 1,500 young people through life-enhancing programmes that combine cricket, outdoor learning and adventure in our magical Arundel setting. Physical activity and spending time in nature are known to have enormous benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. Many of the young people we welcome have had few opportunities to explore the outdoors or face disadvantage in a different form. This year, a highlight was seeing London youngsters camping just off the outfield – for most, it was their first ever night under canvas! They spoke with joy about playing cricket and being able to run around and play freely into the night, a simple pleasure that isn’t always possible where they live.
Once again, we delivered an inclusive and diverse programme in partnership with inspiring organisations such as Lord’s Taverners, Capital Kids Cricket and the Aldridge Foundation. We also welcomed new partners including The Snowdrop Trust, The Orpheus Centre and a growing number of SEND and state schools. Together, we offered a wide and impactful range of residential, day and multi-week programmes for communities across inner London and West Sussex.
Season summary:
- Higher participation across all activity days
- Increased use of camping and alternative accommodation
- Increased number of participants at risk of, or excluded from, mainstream education
- Consistently high-quality coaching staff across all programmes
- Record number of partner organisations for our London and SEND residentials
- New pilot partnerships supporting young people with life-limiting conditions
I always say that it will never be a numbers game here at Arundel, we focus more on the quality and
impact of the young person’s experience. This year our inclusive programmes were proven to support personal growth and deliver strong impact in the key areas of teamwork, resilience, focus and a sense of adventure. We were delighted to see that 97% of participants felt included in all activities and 91% said they left feeling more confident. From day trips to residential visits, we believe our programme offers an unforgettable outdoor learning experience in a truly unique setting. And this year proved it once again as we watched young people challenging themselves with new experiences, supporting each other and making memories that will last a lifetime. As with previous years, a significant proportion of these young people came from London, and you may wish to watch this short video of a new group this year, from Leyton, East London, as I feel it strongly illustrates the power of the programme and impact on the young people: A first-time residential experience at ACCF
None of this would have been possible without the generosity of our supporters and partners – thank you for helping us make Summer 2025 one to remember.
Tim
Tim Shutt
Director, Arundel Castle Cricket Foundation
