We’re supporting students to push their limits in a process of self-discovery. Through a variety of experiences and challenges, we’ll venture beyond stereotypes and self-doubt to build confidence, develop resilience, broaden horizons and create possibility.
OA-Havering students reach new heights
Students from OA-Havering embarked on a fully funded ski trip to Italy – the first of its kind in alternative provision – developing confidence, independence and new skills.
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Community to Classroom event creates connections that venture beyond
Our Community to Classroom event connected local leaders, businesses and supporters with students and staff, showcasing how community collaboration helps young people re-engage with education, build confidence and access new opportunities beyond the classroom.
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Cambridgeshire students achieve DofE success
Two of our academies became the first alternative provisions in Cambridgeshire to have students complete the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award - a milestone opening new opportunities beyond the classroom.
Learn moreHow it began: outdoor learning for inner growth
The initial goal for Olive Academies (OA) Foundation was to raise funds to deliver a specialist residential enrichment programme for all OA students to participate in.
Planned and delivered by OA staff in conjunction with specialist outdoor learning providers, this tailored programme can be optimised for each student to ensure maximum impact and lasting results for all participants.
While the programme can be developed according to students’ abilities, the intended outcomes is the same for all. It encourages all students to move beyond their comfort zone and empowers them to take on challenges that will:
- build resilience
- develop confidence
- increase positive engagement with learning
- improve interpersonal skills
- support relationship-building
- learn self-regulation
- broaden horizons
- discover new interests in physical activities and healthy habits
OA staff will generate lasting change for students by building upon these outcomes back in the classroom to support future success in learning and beyond.
Whilst our work now extends beyond outdoor pursuits, they remain a core element as we believe strongly in the benefits of these experiences.
The impact of outdoor learning on attainment and behaviour
University of Edinburgh
The authentic and informal outdoor context provides rich opportunities for the development of peer and pupil-teacher relationships. Such connections improve behaviour for learning and are central to young people's attachment, sense of belonging and commitment to school and their academic career more generally.”
Jaxon
OA student
Taking part in new experiences has given me confidence in myself. If I’m willing to try, and I put the effort in, I can achieve things. It’s made me think about what else might be possible.
Yusuf
OA student
Rock climbing has taught me to push myself. To not give up when things get tough, but to find ways to work around problems.
The Institute for Outdoor Learning
Adventure learning interventions consistently show positive benefits on academic learning and wider outcomes such as self-confidence.
Leah
OA student
I feel better about myself. I’m learning not to give up and that it’s ok to ask for help.