Schools & Youth

Immersive outdoor experiences that prioritise fun, safety, learning and development

Established in 2017, Portland Outdoor Centre is the latest offering from Activate Outdoors Ltd. Building from the solid foundations of the New Forest Outdoor Centre, and Brenscombe Outdoor Centre we have been delivering valuable, fun, and engaging outdoor educational experiences since 1996.

We’re proud of the high quality residentials we offer, and we value every individual’s experience. We aim to build positive, long-lasting relationships resulting in the majority of schools returning annually for another dose of sunshine by the sea! With the ability to accommodate up x75 people it’s the perfect place to bring a whole year group! We also offer both stand alone and a series of progressive day experinces.

Elevated by limestone cliffs, and surrounded by sea we have the perfect adventurous playground on our doorstep.

Our school outdoor programmes include adventurous elements to get the best out of your trip away, whilst also providing a suitable level of challenge for your students. Our Centre is based in an ideal location with views of Portland Harbour and the surrounding Jurassic Coast. The famous SSSI site of Chesil beach is a 10 minute walk from our front door and the whole island is accessible by walking along the famous South West Coast Path.

We pride ourselves in providing safe and engaging outdoor experiences tailored to the needs of each group

Fantastic, highly professional staff who had a great rapport with the pupils.

St Christophers Hove – P Rodgers

A thoroughly challenging, but enjoyable experience that catered for all children’s ability. We all loved it and have taken away a great sense of achievement.

Dinton Primary School – A Howard
Chesil Beach – Field studies and evening activities
Durdle Door – Field Studies
Portland Bill - Coasteering
Portland Outdoor Centre
Hallelujah Bay – Coastal Bushcraft
Portland Harbour local – Watersports
Sun Lovers Slab
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

  • Yes. We are fully insured to run all of our activities and have £10 million public liability cover.

  • Activities will still go ahead however we will carefully select the venue and pick the safest and most appropriate activity for the conditions on the day.

  • All activity staff are experienced, undergo thorough training are first aid qualified. Where appropriate they have national governing body award qualifications for the activities which they deliver. All staff at Portland are DBS checked. We have a strong team of permanent staff, who are supported by experienced seasonal staff, and long standing freelancers many of whom return for multiple years.

Get in Touch

Please email or give us a call on 01305 822255 to discuss your programme aims and design your experience at Portland Outdoor Centre.

What people say

Great opportunities to challenge our children outside of their comfort zone. Great location and support from the Instructor Team was outstanding.

Shrewton CofE Primary School – A Kay
What people say

Excellent location, staff and variety of activities. Thanks for a brilliant stay!

Berrycombe Primary School – J Atherton
What people say

A collaborative approach, very flexible and felt tailored to us. The food was great and the girls were well fed! A personal touch and team encouraged learning and development throughout, especially the value of teamwork and personal grit!

South Hampstead Juniors – R Vadera
What people say

I was genuinely blown away by the quality, challenge and enjoyment of all the activities on offer. The entire year group attended and all have given glowing reviews. The trip definitely helped them build character, get to know each other and learn new skills. I was really impressed with the way the instructors built a rapport with the boys and helped guide them. The boys certainly appreciated the care shown by the staff during activities, at accommodation and by catering staff too.

St James Boys School – A Deb
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