Residential Trips

At SEN-Explorers, our residential trips are a chance for young people and adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN) to step outside their usual environment and experience real-world independence — all while having a lot of fun along the way.

These short stays away from home are filled with hands-on learning, personal growth, and meaningful experiences. With support every step of the way, participants develop vital life skills in a safe, structured, and uplifting setting.

Each residential is designed to provide a mix of independent living practice, social development, and community activities — all wrapped up in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Here’s what a typical trip includes:

• Staying in a shared wooden lodge or group accommodation
   
• Preparing and cooking meals together
   
• Doing everyday tasks like washing up, tidying, and making beds
   
• Exploring local towns and places of interest (like Winchester Cathedral or Waverley Abbey)
   
• Going on forest walks and outdoor adventures
   
• Playing games like mini-golf or having a movie night
   
• Enjoying downtime in safe spaces (including a personal hot tub on some trips!)
   
• Practicing personal care routines (washing, dressing, laundry)
   
• Building friendships and learning how to live alongside others

For many of our explorers, these trips are a first taste of independence — a space to try new things, make decisions, and feel proud of what they can do on their own (with support nearby when needed).

Participants grow in:

• Confidence and self-esteem
   
• Daily living skills (cooking, cleaning, self-care)
   
• Social communication and teamwork
   
• Emotional resilience and adaptability
   
• A sense of responsibility and independence
   

And just as importantly — they have fun and create lasting memories.

If someone isn’t quite ready for an overnight trip, we can support them with independent living skills at home first — things like cooking, laundry, and personal hygiene routines. This builds confidence so they’re prepared for future residentials. 

Residentials are open to:

• Children and young people aged 10+
   
• Adults with SEN or additional needs
   
• Those who may benefit from a trial run of supported living
   
• Participants already attending other SEN-Explorers sessions or joining us for the first time
   

All trips are fully staffed by experienced support workers who are trained, friendly, and focused on individual wellbeing and safety.

We run residentials in beautiful countryside locations across the UK — including Winchester, Surrey, and surrounding areas. Our venues are handpicked for comfort, accessibility, and the perfect balance of adventure and calm. 

We’d love to hear from you and see how we can support your child, young person, or adult on this exciting next step.