Charity grant funds 2-day trip for Portsmouth pupils to Surrey countryside

Pupils from a Portsmouth primary school in one of England’s most deprived communities have enjoyed a trip to the Surrey countryside, thanks to a £10,000 grant from The Grace Trust.

Organised by Field Studies Council, the trip saw 90 pupils and eight teachers from Arundel Court Primary Academy, based in central Portsmouth, travel to the charity’s Juniper Hall centre near Box Hill, for a two-night residential experience focused on outdoor learning and personal development.

During the stay, pupils took part in a wide range of activities including pond dipping, bushcraft, woodland exploration, small mammal studies and campfire sessions – all designed to nurture a deeper understanding of the natural world and build confidence and teamwork.

For many, it was their first time visiting the countryside or staying away from home.

One pupil said: “I had never been to a place where you can learn about nature outside before, so it felt like a big adventure.”

Another added: “At first I was nervous about picking up insects, but after learning more about them I wasn’t scared anymore.”

Speaking about their favourite part of the trip, one pupil said: “My favourite activity was the campfire. We sung loads of songs and got to toast a marshmallow. I’ve never done that before.”

Teachers said the experience had a lasting impact on both pupils and staff.

One teacher said: “Seeing my students thrive outdoors has transformed my perspective. I’ve witnessed increased confidence, teamwork, and curiosity in ways that don’t always surface in the classroom.”

Another teacher noted that “without funding, many of our students would not have been able to attend. It reduced financial barriers and ensured equitable access to outdoor education.”

Field Studies Council is an environmental education charity that works with schools and colleges to create opportunities for everyone to learn about nature. This was the charity’s second time working with Arundel Court Primary Academy, with a previous visit in 2024 demonstrating the educational and social benefits of the trip.

The Grace Trust is a grant making charity associated with the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church in the UK, which supports initiatives that benefit society and align with its members’ Christian beliefs, founded on the principles of care and compassion.

David Plant, Fundraising Officer at Field Studies Council, said:

“We were delighted to welcome 90 pupils from Arundel Court Primary Academy to Juniper Hall. Experiences like this can be truly transformative for young people, particularly to those from deprived inner-city areas who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience nature in this way. Over the course of just a few days, we see pupils grow in confidence, develop teamwork skills, and build a genuine curiosity about the natural world.

“Demand for funded trips like this is growing, particularly as many families face increasing financial pressures. Unfortunately, the children who benefit most from these experiences are often the least likely to access them. Support from organisations like The Grace Trust is vital in helping us break down those barriers, broaden horizons, and inspire a lifelong connection with nature.”

Charles Hathorn, Trustee of The Grace Trust, said:

“We are delighted to support this visit and help make opportunities like this accessible to young people who might otherwise miss out. Experiences in the outdoors can have a profound impact, building confidence, encouraging curiosity, and helping children develop important life skills.

“At The Grace Trust, we are committed to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference in communities, and we’re pleased to have played a part in enabling these pupils to enjoy such a memorable and enriching experience.”