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Article summary
JCA, part of Experience Education, was named a finalist for Best Residential Experience at the School Travel Awards for the second year running. The event celebrates excellence in school trips and learning beyond the classroom. JCA’s UK activity centres provide safe, high-energy residential experiences that help pupils build confidence, teamwork, and real-world learning skills. Our parent company also sponsored the Education/Learning Team of the Year Award, recognising teams that make outdoor learning meaningful and secure. Whether it’s high ropes, team challenges, or muddy adventures, JCA focuses on creating trips that are fun, educational, and unforgettable. Teachers trust us for clear communication, reliable planning, and gold-standard safety.
The School Travel Awards brought together people who care about giving pupils experiences beyond the classroom. JCA was there as a finalist for Best Residential Experience for the second year running.
We didn’t grab the trophy this time, but being shortlisted means something important: teachers trust JCA to deliver safe, exciting, and educational adventures that pupils remember long after the mud has washed off their boots.
What makes a great residential?
A school trip isn’t just a few days away. It’s a chance for pupils to grow, laugh, and learn in ways the classroom can’t offer. Here’s what matters most:
- Safety first – Our health and safety standards mean you can relax while pupils explore.
- Activities that spark joy – High ropes, team challenges, and outdoor fun that build confidence and teamwork.
- Support from start to finish – We’re with you from planning to the last goodbye.
“It’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.”
Ollie Murray, JCA Regional Account Manager
Why events like this matter
Awards nights aren’t just about trophies. They’re about conversations with teachers and partners who want the same thing: trips that are safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
For many Group Leaders, the question is simple: “Who will help me deliver a trip that’s safe, educational and fun?”
What teachers say about JCA
“Excellent management and safeguarding procedures were brilliant. JCA were very support and swift to respond to any questions or issues throughout our stay. Food was very good and the kids loved the activities. The site is well laid out and accommodation blocks are well set up to best support our students.”
Church Stretton School
“We had an amazing time at Condover Hall. From first contact the JCA team were personalble and professional. The instructors stayed with each group over the stay which meant the children developed a relationship with them and built up trust. This resulted in children being more adventerous with the activities. The children and the staff had a great time and we will be back!”
Prior Weston
Benefits for your pupils
Here’s why a JCA residential is more than just a trip:
- Confidence Boost – Pupils tackle challenges and discover what they’re capable of.
- Team Spirit – Activities build collaboration and communication skills that last beyond the trip.
- Real-World Learning – Outdoor adventures bring curriculum topics to life in ways textbooks can’t.
Celebrating dedication to learning beyond the classroom
Our parent company, Experience Education, proudly sponsored the Education/Learning Team of the Year Award. This award shines a light on teams who go the extra mile to make learning outside the classroom safe, meaningful, and unforgettable. Behind every successful school trip is a group of people working hard to turn plans into real experiences that inspire pupils and give teachers confidence. Recognising that effort matters because these teams make learning come alive in ways that stick long after the trip ends.
Looking ahead
We’re proud of the recognition, but the real reward? Seeing pupils leave with muddy boots, big smiles, and stories they’ll tell for years.
Whether you’re planning your first residential or your fifteenth, JCA is always ready to help you create an experience that’s:
- Safe
- Educational
- Packed with energy and fun
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the trophy. It’s about the trust teachers place in us – and the adventures pupils will never forget.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Explore our UK activity centres, make an enquiry or call the JCA team on 01273 647200.
