Clanfield Junior School grant for Community Orienteering Project
Clanfield Junior School has received a grant from the Orienteering Foundation to establish a permanent orienteering course, opening up new opportunities for pupils and the wider community to get active and connect with nature.
The Orienteering Foundation is delighted to announce the awarding of a grant to Clanfield Junior School in support of their innovative “Get Outside Orienteering!” project. This funding will cover the creation of a map of the school grounds, allowing the school to then create a permanent orienteering course designed not only for pupils but also for families, local groups, and the wider Clanfield community.
The project aims to inspire children and adults alike to enjoy physical activity outdoors, with the flexibility for participants of all ages and abilities to take part. The school plans to integrate the course into its curriculum and after-school clubs, while also hosting family orienteering days, inviting local infant schools, and collaborating with groups such as the Scouts and Southampton Orienteering Club. The course will be accessible outside of school hours, with facilities including parking and newly funded outdoor toilets.
Clanfield Junior School’s vision is to make orienteering a central part of community life, offering low-cost or even free opportunities for families to get active together. The project also embraces technology, with future plans to enhance the orienteering experience using digital tools.
Headteacher Kati Dawkins expressed her enthusiasm:
We want to open our grounds during holidays and weekends, providing a safe space for families to meet, be active, and connect with others. This grant will help us inspire more people to discover orienteering and the benefits of outdoor activity.
The Orienteering Foundation’s support will fund the initial site survey and the installation of a permanent course with multi-challenge signs. The school’s PTA and other fundraising efforts will help sustain and develop the project in the years ahead.
We look forward to seeing Clanfield Junior School’s orienteering course become a vibrant hub for activity, learning, and community connection.