Inspiring Learning through Outdoor Adventure
For over 60 years, Plas Pencelli has been an outstanding Outdoor Education Centre providing high-quality outdoor learning experiences for school children and adults. The centre is renowned for its commitment to “real adventure” in the “real outdoors” combined with the professional and caring approach of its staff.
Activities are designed to challenge and empower students,
providing rich learning experiences that foster resilience, teamwork, and an appreciation of the natural environment, all within the spectacular backdrop of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Safety & Accreditation
Plas Pencelli Outdoor Education Centre adheres strictly to national legislation governing outdoor activity providers, and is licensed by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) which inspects the centre on behalf of the Health & Safety Executive.
- Licence Reference: R0471
- Licence No.: L126027
- Valid Until: 03 March 2026
- Further info available at www.hse.gov.uk/aala
In addition, the centre has been awarded a Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge
- Certificate Number: 100008
- Expiry Date: 17/08/2026
Operational standards are aligned with DfE guidance on school visits, and the centre holds the above accreditations which focus on the quality of provision.
Insurance
Plas Pencelli holds full public and employer liability insurance to the value of £50,000,000. Schools are advised to arrange appropriate travel insurance for their groups.
Staffing & Professional Oversight
All staff are recruited through Swindon Borough Council Safer Recruitment systems and meet stringent criteria for outdoor instruction. This includes:
- Verified, nationally recognised qualifications and experience
- Systematic approval and continuous professional development
- Oversight via a structured management system
Instructors are qualified, experienced and skilled in activity provision as well as being committed to the educational principles which underpin our courses. Schools are encouraged to discuss their individual aims for the course in advance of their visit.
Staff Responsibilities
The primary responsibility for the safety of activities lies with Plas Pencelli staff who are trained and experienced in the delivery of outdoor activities. All activities and venues are subject to oversight by Plas Pencelli’s management team to ensure both safety and quality of delivery. Activity programmes are reviewed daily and remain subject to approval or amendment by the management team.
Visiting staff will accompany their students and are encouraged to take part in the activities, this shared experience contributes significantly to the overall impact of the visit.
pastoral care
The pastoral care of the group falls primarily upon the school staff. They are responsible for supervision during any free time and have overnight responsibility for the group, although a member of the Plas Pencelli team remains on-site overnight to carry out security duties, act as fire warden and as the emergency overnight contact.
In the event of a serious incident, a member of the management team who resides locally will be on call and available to provide further support.
Equipment
All specialist equipment is provided and complies to UK PPE safety standards. Safety equipment is inspected regularly, and is checked prior to each activity ensuring it is suitable for use and correctly fitted.
The centre also provides for each participant:
- Waterproofs
- Walking boots
- Rucksacks
- Wellies
- Water bottles
Daily Routine
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7.30am | Wake up, wash, tidy rooms |
| 8.15am | Breakfast |
| 9.00am | Packed lunch prep / Staff briefing |
| 9.15am | Activity briefing |
| 10.15am–4.30pm | Outdoor activities |
| 4.30pm | Kit return, showers, change |
| 5.00pm | Refreshments / Staff review meeting |
| 5.30pm | Record of achievements/Free time |
| 6.00pm | Evening meal |
| 7.15pm–9.00pm | Evening activities |
| 9.00pm onwards | Free time / Lights out by 10.30pm |
Frequently asked questions
How are offsite activity venues accessed?
Plas Pencelli maintains a fleet of fully insured and regularly serviced minibuses which are used to access offsite activity venues. Journey times are within 45 minutes of the centre. Please note that your coach transport to and from the centre is not included in the course cost.
How many staff should we bring?
One member of staff is needed to accompany each activity group (approx. 12 pupils) plus one extra if desired.
What about first aid & pupil welfare?
All our instructors hold 2-day first aid qualifications and carry first aid kits on activities. We request that all participants, including visiting staff, complete an information form prior to their visit detailing any medical conditions, dietary requirements and additional learning needs. Where there are particular medical or welfare concerns, we encourage schools to discuss arrangements with us in advance of their visit.
Plas Pencelli staff will provide support for any issues that arise during the visit, and have systems in place to deal with many common concerns e.g. bedwetting.
Where can I access your risk assessments?
Visit Leaders have a duty of care to ensure the provider they use meets acceptable standards. Plas Pencelli is an AALA licenced provider (Licence No. L126027, Expiry 03/03/2026) and holds a Learning Outside the Classroom quality badge (No.100008, Expiry 17/8/2026), as outlined in the information above, which reflects not just safety but also quality of provision. Plas Pencelli has many risk assessments in place (for each activity/venues used) but these are technically detailed and unlikely to be of use to schools. If you would like to arrange a preliminary visit to the centre to view facilities then please get in touch to arrange a mutually convenient time.
Is there a tuckshop on site?
A tuckshop is available for visiting staff to operate during periods of free time if required. Confectionary, drinks and souvenirs are available to purchase in the price region of £1 – £10
Will there be other groups onsite?
Plas Pencelli is a large 17 acre site and can accommodate up to 112 pupils. Depending on your group size, there may be another school on site, particularly in the busier summer months. Where this is the case, groups are allocated separate accommodation and dining areas, and have separate social and outdoor spaces.
What time should we arrive at and depart from Plas Pencelli?
For standard courses, arrival at the Centre is usually 11am ( or 4.30pm for evening arrival), and departure is after lunch at 2.30pm. Lunch is provided on arrival day.
What additional educational resources do you provide?
Printed records of achievement are available at the centre for £1 each. They are a great way for pupils to record and reflect on their experiences and learning during their visit.
All students who attended the trip had a fantastic week in an outdoor environment. Students increased their knowledge and skills in outdoor and adventurous activities, they developed their communication, team work and leadership skills and built life long friendships. I’ve had so many e-mails off parents thanking us for organising such a great trip.
Sheldon School