Case Studies

St Machar Academy to Abernethy Outdoor Centre - Adventure, confidence, and teamwork on a residential trip

"Getting the chance to spend a few days away from home with friends and teachers can really boost a young person’s confidence. Being outdoors and trying new activities can help them push themselves and work better with others."

Lara Munro, Director of Operations, All Life Chances

"I loved the activities at Abernethy, from climbing to canoeing. It made learning about teamwork and problem-solving really fun, and I feel more confident back at school."

Liam, age 15

Background

An exciting opportunity arose to send 30 young people and five staff from St Machar Academy on a residential trip to Abernethy Outdoor Centre. The centre generously provided all the spaces free of charge.

Thanks to the support of a local Aberdeen business, the group also travelled to and from the centre in coaches at no cost, and were treated to pizza before setting off.

The trip gave students a chance to develop practical skills, confidence, and independence in a safe and inspiring outdoor environment, while strengthening bonds with classmates and staff.

Support required

Although this trip was fully funded for this group, many young people face barriers that prevent them from accessing similar opportunities. Support is needed to:

🚞Fund future residential trips for more students

🍽️Provide transport and meals for school excursions

🏞️Support outdoor education programs that build confidence, teamwork, and resilience.

Support provided

Thanks to the generosity of the local business and the Abernethy Outdoor Centre, All Life Chances was able to:

✔ Send 30 students and five staff on a fully funded residential trip

✔ Cover all travel costs, meals, and activities for participants

✔ Offer a structured outdoor programme that promoted confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Impact

🌟Increased Confidence: Students challenged themselves with new activities, building self-esteem and independence
🤝Teamwork & Collaboration: Group challenges encouraged cooperation, communication, and leadership skills
🌳Connection with Nature: Outdoor activities fostered a love of learning beyond the classroom and provided a sense of freedom and adventure
📙Positive Learning Experiences: The trip reinforced that learning can happen in many forms, helping students develop new skills and perspectives.

Future plans

🎯Expand access to residential trips for more schools and students across Aberdeen

🎯Secure funding for transport, accommodation, and meals for outdoor education opportunities

🎯Develop additional outdoor programs focused on confidence, creativity, and teamwork.

Working in partnership

All Life Chances works closely with schools, community groups, and local businesses to remove barriers to participation. Partnerships like the one with Abernethy Outdoor Centre show that with support, students can experience life-changing opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Can you help?

Would you like to help more young people attend residential trips and outdoor learning experiences? Could your business or organisation contribute funding, transport, meals, or activity sponsorship?

If your answer is YES, please call 01224 976300 or email hello@alllifechances.org to find out more.

💙 Together, we can make a difference.