Autumn is a special time at YMCA Lakeside. With quieter shores, changing colours across Windermere and crisp fresh air, it offers schools a unique and memorable residential experience. This term, we’ve welcomed a wide range of groups, from Sixth Form team-building trips to younger residential visits, and the feedback has been fantastic.
Here’s what some of our visitors have been saying about their autumn stays at YMCA Lakeside.
Supportive staff who inspire confidence
Teachers and group leaders consistently highlight how professional, approachable and encouraging our staff are, particularly in helping young people overcome fears and step outside their comfort zones.
“We were incredibly happy with the way we were looked after in all aspects of the activities. The instructors were highly competent and professional, and had a fantastic manner with the young people.”
From abseiling to high ropes, instructors work hard to build trust and confidence, ensuring every young person feels supported.
“Friendly and supportive instructors who help our young people to overcome their fears. Abseiling is something they will not stop talking about. Oscar is awesome!”
Challenging programmes that develop leadership and skills
Autumn programmes often allow more time for reflection, progression and deeper learning.
“Excellent progressive programme that built on skills, knowledge and experience. Fun and engaging, it gave the students longer, more complex challenges that generated a wide array of opportunities for genuine leadership.”
Teachers also praised the planning and adaptability of programmes to suit specific group needs.
“Our programme was excellent and we are very grateful to Jay and Suzanne for all the hard work and planning to make our visit so valuable and perfect for the skill development our students require.”
Stronger bonds and lasting memories
Whether visiting with younger pupils or Sixth Form students, groups consistently spoke about the powerful impact of spending time together away from the classroom.
“Our students have gained so much from the experience and pushed themselves outside of their comfort zones at every opportunity. We are leaving with a group of students who have developed a much stronger bond with each other.”
For some staff, the residential provided a valuable opportunity to get to know students better.
“There is so much more I’ve learned about them during the stay than what I have learnt in the first two months with us.”
Even as the seasons change, favourite activities remain just as popular. Many groups commented on how special it felt to have the centre to themselves during quieter autumn weeks.
“As always children have had a great time – so many memories made and so many chuckles. A different time of year for us but it has been lovely having the centre to ourselves.”
Raft building, canoeing and the King Swing continue to be highlights, with autumn views adding an extra wow factor.
“Children always rave about raft building and canoeing. The King Swings are just as popular – especially the new view over the lake.”
Looking ahead
From first-time visitors to long-standing returning schools, autumn at YMCA Lakeside, despite slightly different weather than spring and summer, proves to be a rewarding, confidence-building and memorable experience for young people and staff alike.
