27 February 2026
At Rootd, we offer Learning Outside the Classroom-accredited (LOtC) adventure-focused school residential trips for primary and secondary schools at our Hertfordshire woodland activity centre, just an hour from Central London. The LOtC Quality Badge confirms that we meet national standards for risk management, educational value and staff competence, giving schools confidence in the quality of our outdoor learning experience.
LOtC-Accredited Residential Trips at Rootd
Rootd is a proud holder of the Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Quality Badge, awarded for our high standards in safety, education and risk management. Our school residential trips take place at our Hertfordshire woodland activity centre and are designed for primary and secondary students.
Our programmes combine outdoor adventure and survival bushcraft activities in a natural woodland setting, helping children build confidence, resilience and a stronger connection with the outdoors.
On our trips, children stay in our bell tent or pod accommodation, which gives them an exciting outdoor experience in a safe and comfortable setting.
Why Choose an LOtC-Endorsed Provider?
When you choose a LOtC-accredited provider, you can feel confident that your pupils will be learning in a secure and safe environment.
The Learning Outside the Classroom Council is a reputable national charity established over two decades ago to promote outdoor learning and support organisations seeking high quality outdoor education opportunities for students. The LOtC badge has become synonymous with quality and assurance for school leaders, parents and activity organisers planning educational outings and school residential trips.
Choosing an LOtC-accredited provider can also make the process of selecting a centre much easier. If you’re comparing different providers, you may find our guide on how to choose a school residential activity centre helpful.
What the LOtC Quality Badge Means
Recognition of Quality
The LOtC quality badge is a national award that evaluates educational provision and the quality of risk management across various providers nationwide. From museums and castles to outdoor centres and school residential trip providers, reputable outdoor education providers have met the six LOtC quality indicators, ensuring the delivery of high-quality experiences.
Endorsement by the Department of Education
Recognised by the Department of Education, the LOtC badge serves as a mark of quality, with health and safety guidelines recommending schools seek LOtC quality badge holders when selecting educational visit providers.
Consistent Standards
LOtC accreditation requires assessment by expert awarding bodies, ensuring consistent high standards across different sectors. This rigorous process guarantees that all LOtC-accredited providers adhere to specific quality indicators relevant to their field.
Governance and Support
Governed by Trustees with extensive experience in education, the travel sector and local government, the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom is committed to promoting safe, high-quality outdoor education. The charity’s resources are dedicated to maintaining and enhancing its quality accreditation process, offering CPD and training for providers and educators, and influencing government policies on outdoor education provision in the UK.
Networking and Collaboration
LOtC quality badge holders benefit from inspiration, guidance and online CPD sessions, fostering collaboration among school leaders, teachers and providers. The annual LOtC conference provides a platform for knowledge sharing and networking, ensuring members are well-informed and supported in their outdoor education endeavours.
Training and Development
Quality badge holders have access to training events and CPD opportunities, including first aid training, Level 3 Certification training and virtual events to share best practices. This facilitates ongoing professional development for staff, enhancing the quality of outdoor education provision.
Flexibility and Accessibility
The LOtC quality badge extends beyond large organisations, with numerous local providers offering accredited outdoor educational opportunities. Endorsed by local authority outdoor education advisers, the badge streamlines the provider selection process for schools, offering greater flexibility in choosing providers that meet their location, budget and itinerary requirements.
Continual Improvement
LOtC quality badge holders undergo rigorous re-assessment every two years, ensuring ongoing compliance with standards and continuous improvement in their offerings. This commitment to quality reassures schools and parents of the provider’s dedication to maintaining high standards of safety and education.
Why Learning Outside the Classroom quality gives you peace of mind
Opting for a school residential trip provider awarded the LOtC Quality Badge ensures:
- Comprehensive Risk Management: Providers maintain up-to-date risk management policies and procedures to ensure the safety of students during outdoor activities.
- Highly Trained Staff: Competent and experienced staff engage confidently with students, providing expert guidance and support throughout the outdoor education experience.
- Curriculum Integration: Outdoor activities are designed to complement and enhance the national curriculum, offering students valuable learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
If you’re beginning the planning process, our guide on how to plan the perfect primary school residential trip offers practical advice.
Choosing your LOtC trip provider
With our LOtC accreditation, you can feel reassured that a Rootd residential trip meets national standards for risk management, educational value and staff competence – so you can relax knowing you’re in safe hands.
If you’re reviewing your current residential provider, it may also be helpful to consider when it might be time to change your school’s residential trip company.
Get in touch to find out more about our residential trips for primary and secondary schools.