Each spring, our annual adventure learning trip to Aberdovey offers students a powerful opportunity for personal growth, resilience, and teamwork.
In 2025, 150 students from 16 secondary and special schools across Meridian Trust continued this tradition by travelling to the picturesque area of Wales. In partnership with The Outward Bound Trust, they embarked on an unforgettable journey – pushing boundaries, building confidence, and creating lasting memories.
The Outward Bound Trust is renowned for its adventures that inspire and challenge young people, breaking down barriers and unlocking opportunities, by immersing students in outdoor adventure activities designed to develop key life skills whilst exploring the great outdoors.
At Meridian Trust, one of our five core values is Extending the Boundaries of Learning. We firmly believe that meaningful learning extends far beyond the school gates. Real-world experiences like this one help students build confidence, independence, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.
During the week-long residential, students faced a variety of physical and mental challenges. From pier jumping and rock scrambling to navigating rugged terrain with only a map and compass, every task called for determination and teamwork. Against the dramatic backdrop of Snowdonia’s craggy hills and coastal estuaries, students tackled each activity with courage.
Some of our students reflected on their experiences:
Safaa, a Year 9 student from Greater Peterborough UTC, shared: “Navigating white water streams deep in the heart of the Snowdonia Hills pushed my resilience and teamwork to the limit. Every step was a challenge…but together we faced it head on.”
Reuben in Year 9, from Nene Park Academy, said: “Canoeing and raft building were highlights of the trip. I paddled through the estuary, learning not only to navigate the waters, but also to trust my teammates…By the end of the week, we weren’t just teammates, we were the best of friends.”
Executive Principal at Meridian Trust, Martin Campbell, reflected on the trip: “By participating in activities like those at Aberdovey, our students build pride, gain knowledge and make what we hope will be lifelong memories. Our annual trip is more than just an adventure for our students, it’s a journey of teamwork and self-discovery, a stepping stone to the future. We are so proud of our students that we take to Aberdovey, and we can’t wait to do it next year.”
Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust “This residential trip, not only enables our students to experience the great outdoors but also offers an enriching experience that promotes teamwork and builds on students’ resilience. As a Trust, we take great pride in providing our students with opportunities that expand their horizons, and through our core values and PLEDGES we actively champion learning experiences that last a lifetime.”
This year’s Aberdovey experience stands as a compelling example of how adventure-based learning benefits our students, and we look forward to continuing this tradition, knowing that every student who takes part returns with new skills, new friends, and a renewed belief in their own potential.