The OPS Challenge is now an integral part of school life for our Year 6 and 7 pupils. Run along similar lines to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, the pupils follow a two-year programme. The intention is to give them the opportunity to learn key life skills, such as teamwork and leadership, through a broad range of experiences. They will also develop a better understanding of themselves and their environment.

The 110 acres of beautiful river-fronted grounds provide an ideal setting for The OPS Challenge. There are wooded areas - ideal for campcraft and den-building - a military-style assault course, open-air swimming pool, and much more. The OPS Challenge also includes external expeditions and campouts that have been chosen to further develop skills, as well as providing a fun and educational experience.

Each week, all pupils attend an hour-long activity session in which most of the course is delivered. A typical year would see pupils learning, or trying, the following: orienteering, team building, water rescue, shelter building, knot tying, outdoor cookery, entrepreneurship, kayaking, raft building, first aid, sailing, sign language, self-navigation, code cracking, and community service and such. In Year 6 the pupils are introduced to the various activities while in Year 7 they refine/hone their skills.

During the second week following the half-term break in the Summer term, Year 6 will undertake a two-day sailing course with the aim of achieving a Level 1 sailing certificate (if they do not already have this). During the month of January, Year 7s can test themselves with the OPS Beowulf camp. At the start of the Summer term, all Year 7 participate in a two day OPS Leadership development programme incorporating the range of OPS skills learnt as well as scuba diving and an expedition walk.

In recognition of the participation of pupils and their progress, points are awarded for attending the weekly activity sessions. Additional points may be awarded to pupils for working hard on OPS tasks and / or demonstrating skills to a high standard and / or for showing key qualities, such as resilience, integrity and kindness. The awards are as follows: Bronze [20 points], Silver [40] and Gold [60].