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JOIN USAdventure Away from Home Fund Enables Life-Changing Trip for SEND Students
14 January 2026Forty Supported Learning students from CRC’s Cambridge and Huntingdon campuses recently enjoyed an unforgettable experience at Grafham Water Activity Centre, thanks to the Adventure Away from Home fund. The three-day residential trip, held from 7th to 9th January 2026, gave students the chance to build confidence, resilience, and independence through a range of outdoor activities.
The group included 33 residential students and 7 Huntingdon Learning for Life students, who joined for day visits on Wednesday and Friday. For many, this was their first time away from home, offering a unique opportunity to develop life skills and independence.
Activities during the trip included:
- Biking
- Nightline and walk
- Archery
- Climbing
- Sailing
- Low ropes.
Trip lead Gordon Baines said:
“This trip was made possible thanks to the Adventure Away from Home fund, successfully applied for by Grafham. This funding was vital in enabling our SEND students to access the centre and its activities. Without this support, most of our students would not have been able to afford this opportunity.
“All our students had a great experience; for some, it was their first time away from home doing this type of activity.”
Cllr Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “I’m delighted that the council’s Outdoor Service has been awarded Adventures Away From Home funding, allowing disadvantaged groups to access our Outdoor Centres.
“It is fantastic hear about the positive impact this residential outdoor centre has had on students from Cambridge Regional College. Opportunities like this are invaluable for building confidence, resilience, and independence, skills that will benefit these young people throughout their lives. The team at Grafham Water Centre is proud to play a part in creating these experiences and making outdoor learning accessible for all.”
Students were also joined on Thursday by Ste Greenall from Black Cat Radio, who interviewed staff and students about their experiences at the centre and life at college. These pre-recorded interviews will air on Friday 16th January 2026, 11am–12 midday, on the Your Voice Programme.
Jeremy Lloyd, Assistant Principal for SEND and Inclusion said: “This residential experience provided an outstanding opportunity for students to develop a broad range of skills and strengthen their resilience, fully aligned with our college values. Delivered through a high-quality programme, it fostered engagement, participation, and personal growth. We are delighted that support from the Adventure Away from Home fund made this trip possible. Our sincere thanks go to everyone involved in making this initiative a success, helping us start the Spring term with energy and purpose.”
Students have gained confidence, improved communication skills and a greater sense of independence. They learned to work as part of a team, overcome challenges, and build resilience; skills that will benefit them both in education and in everyday life after college.
