Outdoor Education Programme at QE School Dubai Sports City

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Outdoor education programme

Outdoor education programme

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Building resilience, leadership, and environmental awareness

At Queen Elizabeth’s School, Dubai Sports City, Outdoor Education is a cornerstone of our holistic approach to learning. It provides students with opportunities to step beyond the classroom, engage with the natural world, and develop qualities of confidence, resilience, and leadership. Through progressive, age-appropriate experiences, students learn not only to navigate physical challenges but also to reflect, adapt, and grow into responsible global citizens.

Explore

Building resilience, leadership, and environmental awareness

At Queen Elizabeth’s School, Dubai Sports City, Outdoor Education is a cornerstone of our holistic approach to learning. It provides students with opportunities to step beyond the classroom, engage with the natural world, and develop qualities of confidence, resilience, and leadership. Through progressive, age-appropriate experiences, students learn not only to navigate physical challenges but also to reflect, adapt, and grow into responsible global citizens.

A journey of discovery

The QE Outdoor Education Programme is designed to evolve with the child, offering a journey that grows in ambition and depth at every stage.

In the Pre-Prep and Prep School, outdoor explorations spark imagination and curiosity through activities such as nature walks, gardening projects, and on-campus adventure play. Children also begin to experience day field trips that connect classroom learning with the real world. Visits to farms, wildlife reserves, museums, and coastal environments introduce them to nature, history, and culture in memorable and tangible ways.

As students progress into the Senior School, opportunities become more challenging and adventurous. Day expeditions may include kayaking at Hatta Dam, hiking in the Hajar Mountains, desert conservation studies, and cultural immersion trips that develop both environmental awareness and cultural appreciation. These experiences lay the foundation for multi-day residentials, where students begin to test their resilience, problem-solving, and ability to work as part of a team.

By the time students reach the Sixth Form, the programme culminates in ambitious multi-day expeditions, international award. These experiences push boundaries, encouraging young people to lead, plan, and take ownership of their growth. Whether trekking across rugged landscapes, engaging in service-based projects overseas, or completing demanding physical challenges, students build the independence, adaptability, and leadership skills that will define them beyond school.

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Leadership and responsibility

As students progress, experiences become increasingly student-led. Older learners take on leadership roles in planning, organising, and delivering expeditions. They learn to manage risk, care for peers, and make decisions in complex situations. These opportunities help cultivate empathy, responsibility, and the confidence to lead, developing skills that serve them well in every sphere of life.

Participation in recognised programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award offers an additional layer of structure and prestige. Through expeditions, skills development, physical challenges, and community service, students work towards Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards. These internationally respected qualifications build character, leadership, and resilience, while opening doors to top universities and future opportunities worldwide.

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Connecting with the environment

Outdoor Education is also a pathway to environmental understanding. Students engage in ecological studies, sustainability initiatives, and conservation projects that highlight the importance of protecting natural resources. These experiences foster a deep respect for the planet and instil a sense of stewardship that aligns with Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and global citizenship.

Wellbeing and personal growth

The outdoor environment provides a powerful context for wellbeing. Time in nature encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and promotes physical health. Through reflective practice, journaling, and guided discussions, students build self-awareness and resilience. Outdoor Education becomes not only an academic extension but also a vital component of our School’s wellbeing culture.