Case study

I didn’t think it would change me

Our Bright Futures programme combines outdoor experiences and expeditions with coaching, to support young people who are lacking confidence, experiencing social anxiety, or who are at risk of disengaging with education. In 2021 we partnered with British Exploring Society to give participants the opportunity to go on a 2-week expedition in Scotland, with the Dangoor family funding British Exploring Society to deliver the expedition elements of the programme. This piece of writing is a compilation of students words, shared in a group reflection session.

Building confidence through outdoor experiences and coaching

I didn’t think it would change me but:
Awkward became friends for life
Rations became traded treats
Soggy socks became “trench foot” ….. but I kept walking.

Each group chose different paths and had their own personal journeys:
The cautious became confident
“Couldn’t be bothered” became “Just get it done”
The always online became focussed on the here, the now.

I didn’t think it would change me but now:
I am comfortable with new people
I am resilient, more independent
I have more confidence
I have the motivation to get things done
I have a new perspective on life
I feel different inside
It was a moving experience – literally!

Reflections from Darwen Vale High School students (Bright Futures cohort 2021)

Image captured by British Exploring Society Leader Susannah Cass, Dangoor Next Generation Scotland 2021