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College Groups

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College Group Programmes

Practical, Engaging Outdoor Learning at SWAC

Our College Group Programmes are designed for post-16 learners, offering engaging, practical experiences that sit naturally alongside classroom-based study. Delivered in the same structured, professional style as our school, youth and corporate programmes, college sessions at SWAC combine skills development, confidence building and real-world application through high-quality watersports and outdoor activity.

All programmes are delivered from Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC), a unique waterfront learning environment in the heart of Southampton.

college-swac-rafting

Who These Programmes Are For

We work with:

  • Further Education colleges

  • Sixth forms and post-16 centres

  • T-Level and vocational programmes

  • Sports, public services and outdoor education courses

  • Foundation learning and supported learning groups

Programmes are inclusive and adaptable, suitable for mixed abilities and experience levels.

Activity Options for College Groups

College groups can select from a range of practical, hands-on activities, delivered as single sessions or combined into a multi-activity programme:

  • Dinghy sailing – teamwork, decision-making and practical seamanship

  • Powerboating – leadership, responsibility and situational awareness

  • Paddle sports – accessible physical activity with clear progression

  • Raft building – planning, collaboration and problem-solving

  • Multi-activity days – variety, engagement and challenge

Activities can be tailored to be introductory, skills-focused or challenge-based, depending on course objectives.

college-powerboating

Learning & Employability Outcomes

Our college programmes support:

  • Communication and teamwork skills

  • Leadership, responsibility and initiative

  • Confidence in unfamiliar environments

  • Health, wellbeing and physical activity

  • Engagement for learners who thrive in practical settings

Many colleges use our programmes to support:

  • Enrichment and tutorial programmes

  • Sports and outdoor education pathways

  • Public services preparation

  • Attendance, motivation and learner engagement

A Professional Learning Environment

As with all our provision, college group sessions are delivered with high professional standards:

  • Experienced, qualified instructors

  • Clear learning objectives and structured delivery

  • Industry-standard equipment and safety systems

  • Supportive instruction matched to learner needs

We are happy to liaise with teaching staff in advance to ensure sessions align with course aims or assessment criteria.

dinghy-sailing

Flexible Programme Design

College programmes can be delivered as:

  • Half-day or full-day sessions

  • One-off enrichment days

  • Repeat or progressive weekly visits

  • Standalone activities or multi-activity programmes

We work closely with colleges to create programmes that fit timetables, budgets and learning outcomes.

Practical Information

  • Age range: typically 16–19 (older learners are equally possibe)

  • Location: Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC)

  • Season: available year-round, subject to activity choice and conditions

  • Experience required: none

Enquire About College Group Programmes

If you’re planning an enrichment day, curriculum-linked activity or ongoing programme for your students, we’d be pleased to help.

Contact SWAC to discuss a bespoke college group programme