Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education is an approach to learning and education that focuses on learning through doing or learning from experience. It covers areas such as adventure activities, environmental studies as well as a residential experience and it presents a unique opportunity for people to be involved in situations where
. Cooperation is essential
. Social barriers can be overcome
. Life long skills and leisure interests can be acquired and improved

Programmes for schools and youth groups at the Burren Outdoor Education Centre include

• Transition Year
• Leaving Cert Applied
• National schools
• An Gaisce 
• FETAC Awards

Programme Aims and Learning Outcomes

Aims:
Participate in a range of adventure and outdoor activities
Participate in team games, tasks and challenges
Explore and enhance ability and responsibility of participants as group members
Develop life skills 
Develop awareness and appreciation of the natural environment

Learning Outcomes*
Participants should be able to: 
Actively participate in different activities
Identify specialist equipment with an idea of their purpose
Identify different skills involved in different activities
Identify safety points and guidelines required in adventure sports
Identify a group goal and list what's involved in meeting that goal
Outline group and individual responsibilities
Identify what makes the Burren unique and outline a code for taking care of the natural environment
Attend a camp craft session
Prepare and complete overnight camp

* Content and learning outcomes achieved will depend on duration and type of programme

Transition Year

TY programmes at the Burren OEC provide opportunities for students to experience a range of adventure activities and team games while learning new skills and developing social awareness and competence.

Over 2 to 5 days students will participate in a range of activities, experience challenge and achievement and learn and develop new skills. 

Leaving Cert Applied

LCA programmes are designed to meet the requirement of the Outdoor Education modules. 
Students will 
1. Experience enjoyment and success from participation on physical activity
2. Acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for participation in selected activities in a healthy and safe manner
3. Develop a positive attitude towards continuous participation in physical activities
4. Develop personal and social relationships through involvement in activities

Learning outcomes for Leisure and Recreation and Active Leisure Studies modules can be achieved.

An Gaisce

Burren OEC provides options for completion of the Venture section of An Gaisce Awards. A wide variety of hikes are available either walking the hills or following the coast which will fulfil the requirements for the award.

We can provide you with the necessary training, support and facilities to help you complete the Venture section. We offer a range of packages from just self catering hostel accommodation in the heart of the Burren and advice on your choice or route, or offering guides and catering.

Click here to download our An Gaisce information page

FETAC

The Burren Outdoor education centre is an approved FETAC course provider. We have recently completed a level 5 outdoor instructors course.