A teacher from Cullercoats Primary School has written to North Tyneside Council urging it to reverse its decision to close the High Borrans Outdoor Education Centre in Cumbria by November. Aled Jones sent letters to senior schools improvement advisers, North Tyneside Mayor Karen Clark, and North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, arguing that the centre is needed “more than ever” amid growing challenges facing children.
Teacher’s Plea Highlights Value of Experiential Learning
In his letter, Mr Jones stated: “At a time when the challenges facing our children have never been greater, the closure of High Borrans sends a troubling message about the value placed on experiential learning and the development of the whole child. The evidence is overwhelming that children today need opportunities such as those provided by High Borrans more than ever.” He described the centre as a place where children build resilience, independence, confidence, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving skills, and self-belief, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The council announced the closure on July 1, 2026, citing a required £3 million investment to keep the centre running amid financial pressures and declining school trips. Recent attendance figures show only 1,255 pupils from Years 5 to 8 used the centre out of a potential cohort of 9,300.
Council Cites Financial Pressures and Low Usage
Rebecca Wall, director of children’s services at North Tyneside Council, said: “The Council has taken the difficult decision to close High Borrans Outdoor Education Centre following a detailed review of its usage, costs and long-term sustainability. We know how valued the centre is and the important role it has played for many years. However, like councils across the country, we are facing significant financial pressures. The level of investment required to maintain and modernise the centre, alongside the ongoing subsidy needed to support each visit, means it is no longer financially viable.”
The council stated it will support affected staff and schools with existing bookings, and help schools arrange alternative outdoor education providers.
Community Campaign to Save High Borrans
The Friends of High Borrans charity expressed deep sadness at the closure decision and also called on the council to reconsider. A petition to save the centre is active on the council’s website. Chronicle readers have shared memories of “life-changing” experiences at the centre, which has been owned by the council since 1967.
Mr Jones acknowledged the council’s financial constraints but urged reconsideration, writing: “I appreciate that difficult financial decisions must be made and I do not underestimate the pressures facing the council. However, I would urge you to reconsider whether the long-term loss of High Borrans will far outweigh any short-term financial savings.”
