Beeston Primary Pupils Experience Overnight Camping at Lineham Farm

Local children enjoy first-time outdoor adventure at Leeds Children’s Charity site

Pupils from Beeston Primary School recently took part in an overnight camping experience at Lineham Farm, a countryside centre operated by Leeds Children’s Charity. The event was supported by funding from The David Brown Foundation and aimed to provide children with an opportunity to engage with the outdoors, develop teamwork skills, and build confidence in a safe environment.

Camping activities and learning

For many of the children, this was their first time camping. Activities included pitching tents, building a camp, exploring the natural surroundings, and spending time together around the campsite. These experiences encouraged teamwork and helped the children develop new skills as well as resilience.

According to Leeds Children’s Charity, such outdoor activities contribute to positive childhood experiences by fostering confidence and strengthening friendships. The charity highlighted that with one in four children in Leeds living in poverty, opportunities for outdoor adventure are not accessible to all, making charitable partnerships essential to provide these experiences.

Feedback from Beeston Primary School

Sue Knowles, Pastoral Leader and Designated Safeguarding Lead at Beeston Primary School, expressed appreciation for the funding and support that made the camping experience possible. She noted the children’s enjoyment and the development of teamwork and leadership skills during the visit. Ms Knowles also praised the outdoor instructors for creating a supportive atmosphere.

She commented that sleeping in tents was a highlight for many pupils, some of whom had never camped before. The experience reportedly helped the children bond and created lasting memories.

About Lineham Farm and future opportunities

Lineham Farm is a 120-acre countryside site near Leeds that offers guided camping and residential experiences for schools, youth groups, charities, and community organisations. The centre provides equipment, experienced instructors, and a safe environment for outdoor learning and group activities.

Leeds Children’s Charity encourages groups interested in outdoor educational experiences to contact them to discuss requirements and availability.

Supporting children’s access to outdoor experiences

The charity emphasises the importance of community and corporate support to enable more children across Leeds to benefit from residential breaks and outdoor learning, especially those facing poverty or challenging home circumstances. Various forms of support, including donations, volunteering, and partnerships, help sustain these programmes.

For further details, visit the Leeds Children’s Charity website.