NeneGate School achieves Gold Learning Outside the Classroom Mark

Staff and pupils at NeneGate School, part of Meridian Trust, are celebrating achieving the Gold Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Mark.

The award, overseen by the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (CLOtC), recognises the school's commitment to using places beyond the classroom for teaching and learning, including the school grounds, local visits to religious buildings, shops and natural spaces. As well as day trips to museums, heritage sites, adventure centres, and residential experiences.

The Peterborough special school supports children aged 8 to 16 who have a range of social, emotional and mental health difficulties (SEMH). The school ensures all students have access to a wealth of opportunities that encourage teamwork, confidence and positive educational experiences.

James Leeman, SEND Teacher at NeneGate School, has led the development of their LOtC practice. He said: “When learning moves outside the classroom, students gain confidence, practical skills and stronger academic outcomes. I’m thrilled we’ve received the Gold LOtC Mark; it recognises the life‑changing impact these experiences have on our young people.”

James added: “On-site spaces that support LOtC are vital in providing accessible and meaningful areas where children can learn through active and creative hands-on experiences.” A specialist forest school area, a fleet of mountain bikes and a school garden are all located on the school's grounds. The former school garage has been transformed into a fitness suite, and an outdoor classroom has been created.

A planned expansion within the school will see further developments to on-site facilities, including a dedicated horticulture area with raised beds to ensure accessibility, a new outdoor multi-use games area, and a trim trail to support physical development and regulation.

NeneGate School regularly welcomes external visitors to help enrich topics, including talks from City College Peterborough and local employers. The school is involved in Open Doors and Get into Construction, which provides students with insight into the construction industry and related career pathways.

Other local partners include Nene Park Trust, Youth Dreams Partnership, and the Afro-Caribbean Millennium Centre, where NeneGate School students have enjoyed cultural meals, supporting social development and helping the young people learn about community engagement and cultural awareness.

A number of school trips have seen NeneGate School pupils explore Aberdovey in Wales during the annual Meridian Trust residential, volunteer at local food banks, support the Salvation Army, visit Belton House, and the Natural History Museum, to name a few.

Catherine Wilson, Headteacher at NeneGate School, said: “LOtC plays a vital role in broadening our students’ experiences and helping them engage more deeply with their education. Many of our young people may not otherwise have the opportunity to visit such places.

“Including chances to learn beyond traditional lessons within the school day not only supports academic progress, but also helps prepare the students for their futures and the wider world. It’s been wonderful to see the progress made by our students since embedding LOtC within the curriculum, and I am so pleased that we can provide a Gold standard of opportunities for each pupil.”