In September 2025, our apprentices travelled to Portland for three days of outdoor learning and industry insight. The trip, led by Avon Tyrrell’s Lead Instructor Chris Harman, was designed to challenge apprentices physically, grow their technical skills and give them a wider view of how outdoor centres operate. Through a mix of climbing, coasteering and site visits, apprentices acquired new skills, had fun and experienced powerful learning moments. Sophie, Layla, Louise, Millie, Shaun, Simeone, Emily, and Luke, both first and second year apprentices, took part on this three-day trip.

Climbing on Portland’s Sea Clifs

The first day took the group to Neddyfields, a popular climbing crag with routes set against the backdrop of the sea. Under the guidance of instructor Eddy, apprentices tackled climbs of varying grades, tested their belaying skills and practiced techniques such as down climbing and weight transfer.

For many, it was a first experience of outdoor climbing. Some approached the rock with confidence, while others pushed through nerves to reach the top. The session ended with an abseil down the cliff face and a climb back up, giving the group a taste of rope work from both perspectives. The day closed with a pub meal and campfire, and time to reflect on the challenges and achievements of the day.

Testing Themselves in Coasteering

Day two was spent at Portland Bill, where apprentices took on coasteering in testing conditions. The swell was at upper limit for the session, but with careful briefing and strong teamwork the group managed tidal pools, water jumps and exposed traverses.

Support for one another was clear, helping each other step through a tidal pools and traverses. The session was cut short due to worsening weather. Nevertheless, the group displayed resilience and gratitude for the chance to experience the activity.

Insights from Portland Outdoor Centre

After coasteering, our apprentices visited Portland Outdoor Centre to learn how another site operates. Staff explained the realities of seasonal work, running activities off site, adapting sessions for SEND participants, and planning around unpredictable weather. Apprentices were engaged and asked detailed questions about safety, qualifications, lone working and programme design.

They also visited the nearby D-Day Museum, guided by an instructor who shared how history is woven into outdoor sessions. He praised the group’s curiosity, teamwork and enthusiasm, highlighting their professional potential.

Exploring Osmington and PGL

Our final day involved a walk to Osmington and look at the PGL centre from the hillside. This sparked discussion about how different sites approach high ropes, water activities and risk management. The group also reflected on the Lyme Bay canoeing disaster and its lasting impact on industry safety standards.

Personal Growth and Takeaways

Each apprentice left Portland with a personal highlight and a clear lesson. Some built technical climbing skills, others developed independence, resilience, or people skills. Many left motivated to pursue further qualifications or explore different paths in the outdoor industry.

---

“It was an incredible experience! It gave me an opportunity to connect, learn and develop not only as an instructor, but as as a colleague and a friend as well. I really enjoyed climbing on the side of a cliff and getting a feel for how it is to climb outdoors – it was amazing to put my skills into practise in a different environment. Coasteering was extraordinary, it was a mix of both scary and exciting, jumping off cliffs and exploring caves made my first experience a true adventure to remember. 

A lot of great memories were made with a lot of great people and I’m sure I’m not the only one from the trip to say thank you so much for such a lovely apprenticeship trip!”

— Shaun, Avon Tyrrell Apprentice

---

A step forward

The Portland trip combined challenge, teamwork and professional development. For the apprentices, it was more than a set of activities; it was a chance to see how the wider outdoor sector works and understand where they want to take their own journey.