MAC has been Calderdale Council’s premier outdoor education facility now for over 22 years, with over a century of combined experience.

MAC offer exciting programmes and projects that will encourage young people to embark on a path of lifelong learning using the outdoors as a medium to encourage new experiences, confidence and build an individual’s self-esteem.

Residential experiences and outdoor education have proved to be one of the most effective means of developing young people to reach their full potential and contribute fully within their communities. Residential and outdoor environments are both extremely powerful in providing an holistic ‘whole person’ development.

It is important that ‘A broad and balanced curriculum, with learning outside the classroom as a powerful element, supports higher achievement” Ofsted’s ‘Learning Outside The Classroom – How Far Should You Go’ report, October 2008.

MAC provides the opportunity for young people and adults, of all ages, to step out of their familiar environment with its routines, restrictions and responsibilities and gives them the space to stretch themselves in new ways within an atmosphere of support and acceptance.

Our residentials, outdoor learning environments and activities provide accompanying teachers and group leaders are

the link between familiar and unfamiliar surroundings, helping young people to settle into their new environment and broaden their horizons.

MAC’s qualified and experienced outdoor education instructors provide many opportunities to help young people experience new and exciting challenges which they can use effectively.

The majority of our activities take place outdoors and are appropriate to the age, experience and interests of each group. Activities range from rock climbing, mountain biking, canoeing and archery to environmental projects and creative art activities.

Courses are planned by the teachers or groups leaders and pupils, working in partnership with MAC staff to meet specific learning outcomes. Such outcomes will be agreed beforehand and the activities will be tailored to achieve these.

    •  Developing skills that will help young
       people make choices towards further
       education or employment; tackling issues
       around NEET.

    •  Deterring young people from becoming
       involved in antisocial behaviour,drug-
       taking and any other associated problems.

Programmes are designed to support young people through the development of informal education; gaining new experiences; working within a team and developing decision making skills.

Through the provision of meaningful activities, our programmes will raise the young people’s self esteem and enhance their key skills.

How Programmes are Delivered

The programme will be delivered over 3 days a week for 12 weeks. It will consist of a set of core modules,

including numeracy and literacy as well as bolt on modules which are negotiated by the individual participant. There is also the opportunity for a residential element of 2 days/1 night within the UK.