Bendrigg Trust
Photos of Bendrigg Trust
What will students see and do?
Bendrigg Trust has over 40 years of experience working with children and adults who have different abilities, including those with complex needs, PMLD, or special education needs (SEN).
The Trust works to provide visitors with a range of accessible adventure activities as part of residential or day visits.
Because Bendrigg staff take the time to understand the unique needs of students, the courses they offer are flexible in order to meet desired learning outcomes. They are usually geared towards personal development such as building confidence, independence and social skills.
The Trust is located in a stunning rural area near the Lake District National Park, so it’s a great base from which to explore the surrounding countryside.
Bendrigg Trust has designed its entire property around being accessible and is dedicated to providing outdoor activities that students otherwise might not have access to. There are options for adventure activities related to climbing, cycling, canoeing, caving and sensory experiences.
Bendrigg Trust is also an approved activity provider of DofE programmes. The experienced team can provide training and fully inclusive and accessible courses – including specialist equipment for completing expeditions alongside experienced staff.
How does the trip link to the curriculum?
A trip with Bendrigg Trust can most easily be linked to the PE curriculum. Because of the rural location of the venue, there are options for science and nature studies.
Many courses are about building community and working with others to succeed, which can be important for instilling values of leadership and confidence in students.
Subjects covered
Teaching resources provided
To prepare pupils for their visit, you can download images representing each of the activities at Bendrigg from the “Virtual Taster Page” on the venue’s website. There is also a guided tour of the facilities and several videos on the venue’s YouTube channel.
Minimum and maximum group size
There is a minimum group size of 12 people (teachers and pupils inclusive) and a maximum of 64.
There are two accommodation buildings which sleep up to 64 guests in total. Bendrigg Lodge can sleep up to 40 guests and Acorn House sleeps up to 24.
Details of risk assessment
As a specialist provider, the Bendrigg Trust is committed to managing risk. It has public liability insurance, is inspected regularly by the Adventure Activities Licensing Service and runs its own consultancy and training services for those who want to learn how to work with people in more diverse learning environments.
Download a risk management summary document from the website.
Don't miss our downloadable A-Z guide on completing a risk assessment
Facilities On-Site
The Bendrigg Trust is focused on providing accessible accommodation that includes bathrooms that are en-suite, profile beds and ceiling-mounted hoists.
Outside of the sleeping arrangements, the 15-acre grounds of the Trust feature specialised equipment that allows everyone to enjoy outdoor adventure activities. This includes a zip wire, tube slide, climbing wall, sports hall, indoor cave and sensory room. Meeting facilities are also available.
Opening Times
Contact staff via phone or email between Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, to discuss trip options.
Pricing
Due to the programmes being customised to your group’s individual needs, you will need to contact Bendrigg Trust directly for a quote. Please have some information about when you would like to visit, for how many nights and how many people.
The Trust has a variety of courses, offers accommodation and allows some of its facilities to be separately booked, all making costs highly variable.
For teachers interested in previewing the facilities please look at the Bendrigg Trust “Virtual Taster” page on the venue’s website. You are also welcome to contact the centre directly to arrange a tour around the facilities.
Travel arrangements
By train, the nearest line is the West Coast train line.
By car or bus, the Trust is just off the M6 motorway.
Address
Bendrigg Lodge, Old Hutton, Kendal, Cumbria
LA8 0NR
Book your school trip to Bendrigg Trust
For information on booking your school trip to this venue, click below.