Lasting outcomes of a CPD opportunity ~ Education and Enrichment ‘Outside the Classroom’ A weekend at an activity centre in North Wales. Participation in activities and discussion/follow up with centre leaders and Edge Hill Staff. Completion of an assignment assessed at Level 6/7 or as a stand alone module for a Certificate in Professional Development.

Characteristics of the group 38 final year undergraduate and PGCE trainees across early years/primary/secondary.38 final year undergraduate and PGCE trainees across early years/primary/secondary. Self selecting Age range: 21 to 50+ Initial Research A questionnaire distributed to all trainees. Opportunities for pre test /post feedback. Some indication of how the trainees envisage using the experience in their first teaching post.

Initial findings 32/38 trainees returned the evaluation sheets 25 volunteered to take part in the follow-up research

Current issues/next steps Many trainees filled in both sections of the form after the event. Overwhelmingly positive feedback about the experience at a personal and professional level (see Summary evaluation) Post-test: perhaps ‘post-group euphoria’ (Marsh, 1986b cited by Hattie et al, 1997). Hattie et al (1987) noted that the effects of outdoor education programmes were greater for adults. Peacock (2004) identify the value of such experiences for experienced teachers (via CPD) and trainee teachers where such opportunities have been offered. Contacting trainees in Spring/Summer 08. How has the experience translated to practice; differences across primary/secondary?

Hattie J et al (1997) Adventure Education and Outward Bound: Out of Class :Experiences that make a lasting difference in Review of Educational Research, Spring 1997, Vol 67 pp Marker M & Cooper D Comments on: A Review of Research on Outdoor Learning Neill J (2007) Factors Which Influence the Effects of Outdoor Education Programs Peacock A (2006) Changing Minds: the lasting impact of school trips. schoolguardianshipschanging_minds.pdf Rickinson M et al (2004) A Review of Research on Outdoor Learning, Executive Summary, NFER