By Anna Humphries, Development & Logistics Manager at Bear Grylls Survival Academy
For many families, private education is a significant investment. But with a 20% VAT now added to tuition fees, the question isn’t just about affordability – it’s about value. While the policy aims to generate additional funding for state education, it certainly presents financial challenges for independent schools, and even more so, the families they serve. As parents reassess the cost of private education, schools must offer more than just academic excellence to justify tuition fees. So, how can schools demonstrate that they offer more than just academic instruction?
If schools are searching for a way to demonstrate this added value, then outdoor education and survival skills programmes can be a worthwhile investment. By integrating real-world learning opportunities that develop key life skills for children, these types of survival-based activities will prepare students not just for their exams, but for their life.
Why schools need to offer more than academics
According to a recent survey by GoStudent, 91% of parents believe education should include both academic subjects and extracurricular activities. This clearly shows that education today is about more than just grades, parents and students alike are looking for a well-rounded learning experience, one that is not just taught in classrooms.
Beyond traditional subjects, skills like resilience, problem solving, leadership and adaptability are increasingly recognised as essential for success in education, career progression, and life in general. In an era where digital learning is on the increase, and artificial intelligence is reshaping entire industries, human skills such as teamwork, critical thinking and self-sufficiency have never been more valuable.
For private schools, the VAT increase has made the question of value even more pressing. If families are having to pay more, they will expect more in return. Many parents are now exploring international schooling options with lower tuition fees, and competition amongst independent schools is fiercer than ever. The schools that can differentiate themselves by offering experiences outside of the textbooks will be the ones that thrive.
Equipping children with key skills through nature-based learning
Outdoor and survival skills programmes are designed to push students out of their comfort zones and immerse them into the natural world. From learning how to start fires and shelter-building to teamwork and problem-solving exercises, these activities provide children with the hands-on skills that build confidence, resilience and perhaps most importantly, independence.
These experiences are about more than just adventure though, they equip students with transferable skills that benefit their education and their future careers. The ability to think under pressure, adapt to new situations, and work collaboratively are all crucial competences that extend far beyond the outdoors.
How outdoor learning can showcase true value
As private schools look to provide compelling reasons for parents to invest in their children’s education, experiential learning offers tangible benefits. Whilst outdoor education certainly provides physical benefits for children, the impact on their mental wellbeing and increased engagement with their studies cannot go unnoticed, especially considering that 85% of UK parents would support the introduction of mindfulness and emotional wellbeing activities into school curriculum.
One example of this is the Young Survivors Programme, developed by the Bear Grylls Survival Academy. This programme takes children into the outdoors to learn essential survival skills, as well as greater environmental awareness and nature exploration, all with the aim of teaching them core skills that can transfer from the wilderness, and into the classroom.
By incorporating survival skills and nature-based learning into their curriculum, schools can offer something that isn’t available through standard classroom teaching. Whilst traditional methods are still important and valuable, this provides an opportunity to show prospective families that their child’s education is about developing life skills, not just academic knowledge.
Preparing students for life, not just exams
Following the recent introduction of VAT on private school fees, many see this as a financial challenge, but by reframing it, schools have an opportunity to redefine their value proposition. By integrating experiential learning initiatives, schools can offer an education that equips students with the skills they need to thrive in an unpredictable future, and one that goes beyond end of year grades.
At a time when parents are seeking greater value from their child’s education, schools that prioritise physical, skills-based learning will stand out. Outdoor education and survival skills aren’t just extras, they are vital for developing resilient, capable, and well-rounded individuals. By embedding these experiences into the curriculum, schools not only set themselves apart in a competitive landscape but also equip students with lifelong skills that prepare them for success beyond the classroom.
Now is the time for schools to rethink their approach. Implementing outdoor learning into the curriculum isn’t just a way to add value, it’s a way to future-proof education.
If you would like to learn more, please visit: https://beargryllssurvivalacademy.com/
