Derwent Hill

Derwent Hill is based on a beautiful 19th century mansion with modern, extended facilities. Superbly situated amidst the lakes and mountains of the Lakes District National Park, in the village of Portinscale, near Keswick. It is owned by the Sunderland City Council, and is visited by both our Junior and senior schools.

The course is designed to be full of adventure, with a chance to explore the countryside and to attempt exciting outdoor activities. We visit the centre in May, with Year 5 pupils attending from Monday to Friday, and our Senior pupils (ranging from years 7 to 10) present for the weekend.

Highly skilled, experienced and qualified tutors lead the activities, with safety, enjoyment and learning in mind. Derwent Hill has an exceptional safety record as a result of activities being low risk and maximum fun, meaning pupils are challenged but still have enjoyment.

Throughout their stay at the centre, pupils take part in a range of activities in and around the centre. Some of which are listed below:
Hill walking
Kayaking
Canoeing
Dinghy sailing
Climbing/abseiling
Gorge Scrambling
Orienteering
Team challenges
Problem solving
Ropes course
Our pupils show enthusiasm and excitement towards visiting the centre, and the fact that they return year after year is a good reflection on the enjoyment they get from the challenging and new activities they experience at Derwent Hill.