Planning your Gold Residential?

Our AAP courses are backed by over 10 years of experience delivering exceptional residential programs.

Coastal Fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast West Dorset-A UNESCO world heritage site

This exciting residential in Charmouth, West Dorset offers participants the chance to explore the Jurassic coast and delve into the fascinating world of fossils

Location: Jurassic Coast, Charmouth, West Dorset – A UNESCO World Heritage Site Duration: 5 days, 4 nights Accommodation: Comfortable shared facilities 5 minutes walk from the the coast. This exciting residential experience offers participants the chance to explore the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its incredible geological history and rich fossil deposits. Over the course of five days, you’ll delve into the fascinating world of fossils, geology, and coastal conservation, while building valuable skills in observation, analysis, and environmental stewardship. Guided fossil hunts on famous beaches like Charmouth and Lyme Regis will immerse you in hands-on discovery. Workshops led by experienced guides and geologists will teach you about fossil formation, how to identify specimens, and the geological processes that shaped this unique coastline. You’ll also learn about the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems through conservation activities such as beach clean-ups and sustainable practices. Evening sessions feature guest speakers who share their passion and expertise in fossils, geology, and conservation, offering additional depth to your learning experience. You’ll also have time to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Jurassic Coast with beach activities and connecting with like-minded peers who share your interest in the natural world. By the end of the residential, you’ll have developed new skills in fossil hunting, identification, and cataloguing. You’ll gain a greater understanding of the history of life on Earth and the importance of coastal conservation. Alongside these practical skills, you’ll build teamwork, problem-solving, and communication abilities. This program is suitable for participants of all abilities, with no prior knowledge required. It’s ideal for anyone with a curiosity about fossils, geology, or the environment. A detailed packing list will be provided to ensure you’re prepared, including essentials like sturdy walking boots and waterproof clothing. The cost of the course at £949 includes all meals, breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, accommodation in a coastal cottage with shared facilities, guided activities, and materials. Embark on a journey through time, uncover the secrets of the Jurassic Coast, and make a meaningful contribution to preserving this remarkable landscape, all while fulfilling the Residential section of your DofE Award. Contact us at [email protected] to secure your place and begin your fossil-hunting adventure. Dates available include February and May half terms
Fossil hunters enjoying a break on the beach

Season It Cookery in the beautiful French Alps

If you've enjoyed our online course why not take a look at our residential course for your Gold. Located in the French Alps with stunning mountain scenery, take your cooking to the next level.

With over 20 years experience of lovingly hosting ski chalets in the French Alps we run a comprehensive Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award RESIDENTIAL course in Chalet Hosting and Cookery. We are an Approved Activity Provider (AAP) and we are licensed by the DofE Award. The residential course takes place in the French Alps, and is based at our luxury Chalet Pomet, where you will not only receive expert tuition but you'll also be accommodated in style! Our courses are a winning combination with small numbers and our lovely friendly, fun and highly qualified tutors. Book your place now... £1149 for a 6 night course. The course is ideal for your DofE GOLD RESIDENTIAL section, with participants aged between 16 and 19. We are an Approved Activity Provider for the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and we will act as your assessor during your stay, submitting a report to your eDofE page upon completion of the course. Numbers are limited to a maximum of 10 students per course. "Anyone who is struggling to find a gold DofE residential sign up to this course as this was the highlight to my summer and an experience I will not be forgetting." Sophie Rose.

Beekeeping in the gorgeous Dorset countryside

A residential with a difference, learn natural beekeeping skills and how to interact and protect our honey bees.

Complete your DofE residential in beautiful rural West Dorset, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty right on the Jurassic Coast. We are natural beekeepers and will teach you about our approach to bees, beekeeping and how to interact with honeybees while still protecting them and their habitat. Our team have combined our skills and passions of beekeeping, teaching, environmentalism and cooking to provide a magical hosting experience for all our guests. Our beekeeping team have a wealth of beekeeping experience to share with you and a desire to bring you into the astonishing world of honeybees.This course has a strong practical element, as we believe you need to 'do it' to truly grasp it. We are there by your side to advise and assist, and you will leave our course with confidence in your new knowledge and skills.