Social Impact Fund: Inspiring through adventure

St Aidan's RC Primary School is at the heart of its community, serving over 200 children in Ashington. Each year, the school provides enriching and memorable overnight experiences designed to help children develop their confidence, independence and cultural awareness. To give every pupil the opportunity to participate regardless of their financial circumstances, the school asks for only minimal contributions from families. 

The school was nominated to receive funding from NCFE’s Social Impact Fund by a colleague who has seen first-hand the positive impact the trips had on their own child. Through this fund, the school has been able to cover the costs of travel and purchase activity materials for two memorable trips that have benefitted 60 children.  

Deputy Headteacher Julie Teer said: “With schools under ever‑increasing pressure from rising costs, funding like this makes an immense difference. It means we can continue to provide children with meaningful, enriching experiences – experiences we may struggle to provide otherwise.”  

The ‘Year 3 Camp Out’ encouraged pupils to build resilience, survival skills and independence while camping in large bell tents on the school field. For many children, it was their first camping experience, and for some their first time sleeping away from home.  

Outdoor crafts such as knot-tying and paracord weaving boosted co-ordination and creativity, while making friendship bracelets to share around the campfire encouraged group bonding. 

This immersive ‘Kip on the Ship’ adventure saw pupils embarking on an early morning train to London, where they visited iconic landmarks before boarding the historic HMS Belfast. There, they had the opportunity to explore historical ship exhibits and participate in onboard workshops, all before sleeping overnight on the ship.  

As well as building an understanding of UK maritime history, students gained knowledge and confidence through navigating the city, collaborating in groups and engaging with museum staff. 

Read more about the causes NCFE’s Social Impact Fund has supported here.