Gloucestershire County Council created South Cerney Outdoor Education Centre in 1971 as a non-profit organisation to promote outdoor learning and provide low cost outdoor activities for young people. Our strength lies in our ability to allow each person to learn safely and have fun. We manage the risks inherent within the activities to provide adventure and awareness thereby creating an ideal environment for learning and preparing for future life challenges.

Our objective is to provide a range of progressive activities, events and expeditions for Youth Groups, School Groups and College groups on a daily or residential basis. We also run nationally recognised courses for individuals, adults and corporate groups, a work placement programme, a volunteer scheme and instructor courses. Although we do not have accommodation for adults a local hotel is only 5 minutes walk away.

Based in the Cotswold Water Park between Cirencester and Swindon we have excellent facilities and resources by a 47-acre lake of crystal clear water and the River Churn. The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and one of significant beauty.

Group & Corporate

We have many activities to choose from with different learning potential and outcomes for each. Sailing, Dragon boating, rafting, kayaking, windsurfing, tunnelling, problem solving, canoeing, environmental study work, team work, low ropes course, orienteering and snorkelling.

Paddling

In the initial stages each paddler will be introduced to different kayaks and canoes. This will produce a foundation of good paddling and experiences for later journeys and adventures.

Sailing

We are simply the best place in the Cotswolds to learn sailing. From your first sail to sailing with a harness and an asymmetric you can do it all on our crystal clear lake. We have an extensive range of boats for you to use with excellent access to the water. We can even train you to become a sailing instructor.

Windsurfing

From learning how to stand and hold the rig on the board you will sail across and up wind. Steering and developing good footwork will take you further until you are able to take on more power and excitement! As you learn better techniques you will be able to go faster.

Snorkelling

Discover a whole new world under the water. Learn how to dive safely and work to support the team.