Here at ACCF we’re all about creating first time experiences for young people who wouldn’t normally have opportunities to play cricket, to spend time in green countryside, to visit a castle, to play on the beach or to simply just stay away from home.
Last month we were thrilled to welcome a group of young people from Stewart Headlam Primary School in East London, who left the Capital to take part in an exciting three day residential adventure at Arundel. The pupils enjoyed accommodation at Lodge Hill in Pulborough, a short 10-minute drive from Arundel. They took part in a range of activities and situations that they would not normally have the opportunity to experience in the hectic surroundings of London. Cricketing activities with the Arundel coaching team helped to develop core skills such as team-working, problem-solving and resilience. They ventured out into the local countryside with ‘The Arundel Amble” and walking challenges, den-building, exploring the enchanting Arundel Castle and gardens, learning about the local history, tying in with their curriculum.
As well as that, the group were treated to an exciting trip to the Norfolk Estate Farm, just along the road in Burpham. It was a great opportunity for the pupils to learn about farming and where their food is produced, and experience the great outdoors, away from their usual environment in London. They rounded off their stay with a fun trip to Littlehampton beach, enjoying fish and chips for lunch by the seaside!
At the end of the trip, the students reflected on their Arundel experience:
“I’ve absolutely loved this trip, I’m really going to miss waking up and my friends being right next to me!”
“My time in Arundel has been so fun, I loved building shelters in the woods because it was a challenge that I hadn’t experienced before.”
“There are so many skills that I have learnt here that I will be able to take back into my life!”
This residential experience is part of our Inner London Borough Programme which engages young people from some of the most deprived and challenging areas of London in sports, learning and social experiences to help overcome barriers, raise aspirations and create opportunities.
To find out more about our work with young people from some of the most deprived areas of London follow this link: Inner London Borough Programme
