Residential Visits at Dale


Benefits of a Residential Visit

Residential visits give pupils the chance to participate in new and exciting experiences which build confidence, resilience, independence, problem-solving skills and a greater knowledge and understanding of the world around them. In addition, children develop both socially and personally and build lifelong memories.

As part of the residential experience: witnessing children overcome challenges with absolute determination and then seeing them beam with pride when they are successful; hearing them laugh whole-heartedly, sharing their enjoyment and simply seeing the look of fascination on their faces when they encounter the different and unique activities presented to them, captures the importance of giving our children the chance to take part in a residential trip.


Castleton in Year 4

Our Year 4 children visited the Derbyshire town of Castleton this year! They visited the Blue John Caverns and had a fantastic time experiencing a variety of outdoor activities, hiking, archery, fire building etc.
They enjoy 3 nights away from home, helping them to build their independence and have fun with friends.

It is great to get a chance to spend time with people from the other classes and your teachers.
— Year 4 Child, Summer 2024
I enjoyed making rockets at the hostel it was really fun.
— Year 4 Child, Summer 2024
The caves were a little bit scary at first, but when I got used to it they were amazing.
— Year 4 Child, Summer 2024

Example Itinerary

Day one  - Wednesday                                          
08.45 - Arrive at school
09.15 - Leave Dale
11.00 - Arrive at YHA Castleton Losehill Hall
11.45 - Early lunch (bring packed lunch from home)
12.45 - Walk into Castleton village. Visit Peveril Castle
15.00 - Return to Youth Hostel. Unpack and settle in.
17.00 - Dinner
18.30 - Team Games-  ‘Scavenger Hunt’
19.30 - Walk into village to identify village features
20.30 - Return to Hostel. Room time (shower)
21.00 - Hot chocolate and bed. 

Day Two - Thursday
07.00 - Wake up. Make beds, tidy rooms
08.00 - Breakfast
09.00 - Collect packed lunches ready for day’s activities.
09.15 - Walk into village
10.00 - Walk towards Mam Tor.
11.45 - Arrive at ‘Treak Cliff’ Cavern.  Packed lunch.
13.00 - Tour of cavern in groups with local tour guide. Souvenir shopping opportunity.
14.00 - Leave the Treak Cliff Cavern. Walk back to village.
14.30 -Castleton Visitors Centre. Fudge shop.
16.00 - Room time.
17.30 - Dinner
18.30 - Team games in hostel grounds.
20.30 - Room time. (Showers)
21.00 - Hot chocolate and bed.

Day Three - Friday
07.00 - Wake up, begin packing.
08.00 - Breakfast
08.45 - Finish packing, tidy room.
09.30 - Archery and ‘Jumblies’ team activity
12.00 - Lunch
12.30 - Final play time
13.30 - Leave Castleton
15.15 - Arrive at Dale

Edale in Year 6

Our Year 6 children enjoy the wonderful experience of visiting Edale in Derbyshire in Summer 2. To celebrate the end of their SATs and take part in some outdoor learning, they spend two nights in hostel-style accommodation and have the opportunity to explore the wonderful landscape of North Derbyshire. Activities include a night hike on arrival, canoeing, crate climbing and weaselling!

Edale was the greatest and most fun experience I’ve had at Dale
— Azayd
I learned how to start a fire. I am so proud that I overcame my fear. I also enjoyed sleeping in a room with my friends.
— Daud
I enjoyed pushing myself and doing new things like jumping into a lake and weaseling
— Maryam
It is a great learning experience. It was challenging in a good way. People might say it is expensive, but it is definitely worth it!
— Ayaan