Calvert Trust Exmoor has achieved the AHOEC Gold Standard for the quality of its outdoor education, and continues to be the only centre in the South West to carry this endorsement.
The AHOEC (Association of Heads of Outdoor Education Centres) exists to champion high safety and quality standards in the provision of outdoor learning.
It does not award its Gold Standard assurance lightly, with just 49 centres across the UK currently brandishing the accolade.
Gold standard recognises exceptional provision
The Gold Standard is the AHOEC’s quality scheme. It recognises exceptional performance in the provision of outdoor education delivery and learning outcomes, while also taking into account other operational aspects, including the quality and safety of facilities, staff and customer care.
“Delighted”: Activities Manager Sophie
Focusing on nine areas altogether, the standard provides a framework against which the top activity providers are thoroughly assessed.
On receiving the Gold Standard, Sophie, Activities Manager for Calvert Trust Exmoor, said: “I am delighted to have retained the Gold standard award as we continue to strive to provide the best experience possible for our guests.”
Calvert Trust Exmoor strives for excellence in everything it does, and is proud to hold a growing number of awards and accreditations for the services it provides.
England’s only five-star-rated activity accommodation
The centre offers the only 5-star-rated activity accommodation in England, and is also accredited to the AALA and CLOtC.
Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the edge of Exmoor National Park, a short distance from the North Devon coast, and with everything together on one fully accessible site, the Trust welcomes guests of all ages and levels of ability.
The centre enables people with physical, learning, behavioural and sensory disabilities to experience exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activities, together with their families and friends.
Specially trained instructors
Highly experienced instructors are qualified by national governing bodies such as the British Canoeing, RYA and BHS and are specially trained to work with disabled individuals.
Residential breaks are built around a structured programme of activities led by qualified instructors, all tailored to the specific needs of visitors. Activities include cycling, climbing, abseiling, horse riding, archery, low ropes, and crate stacking.
Calvert Trust Exmoor also has exclusive access to Wistlandpound Reservoir for sailing, kayaking and canoeing.
With a range of indoor and outdoor activities on offer, and standard and adaptive equipment provided to suit individual needs, the Trust’s aim is to provide each and every guest with the best possible experience so that they leave keen to return and eager to recommend it to others.
To ensure Calvert Trust Exmoor continues to meet the demands of its Gold Standard, the AHOEC carries out inspections every two years.
More about Calvert Trust Exmoor
Calvert Trust Exmoor is the South West’s premier holiday destination for people with disabilities, and the only 5-star accredited activity accommodation in the country. We welcome over 3,500 residential guests and 5,000 day visitors a year with the philosophy of “At Calvert Trust Exmoor it’s what you CAN do that counts”. This sums up our approach to what we do, we help people of all levels of ability to fulfill their potential and be all that they can be.
Calvert Trust Exmoor is the third Calvert Trust Centre. It was opened in 1996 to offer people with physical, sensory and learning disabilities – and their friends and families – the chance to achieve their potential through the challenge of outdoor adventure.
Click here to visit Calvert Trust Exmoor’s website
Visitor quotes
Sarah Davies: “Just had possibly our best holiday ever, because we were all together, and able to completely relax. Monday to Friday was way too short, so we are already planning to return. We couldn’t have met a nicer group of people, both guests and staff. The food was gorgeous, the accommodation spotless and comfortable, and the activities, well, I didn’t imagine myself doing half of what we did but we loved every minute.”
Aileen & Spud Milsom, Energeyes: “Once again another wonderful week, Calvert Trust Exmoor has been truly inspirational for our members getting them to achieve things they thought were not possible. The Instructors gave them the confidence and encouragement to reach new heights – many thanks. This is certainly a special place, thanks to all the staff.”
Elizabeth Fitzroy Support: “The environment was peaceful and allowed space for people, and everything was made effortless with practical equipment and clothing. Our apartment was spotless, and there was plenty of help to sort out any problems – not that there were any!”
