When your school arrives at Croft Farm Waterpark, you’re not just stepping into a watersports haven in the Cotswolds – you’re stepping into the beating heart of a JCA team who live and breathe adventure (and maybe quote Hot Fuzz more often than you’d expect).
Our crew? They’re the ones who’ll high-five your pupils at breakfast, coax nervous climbers onto the wall, and make sure every splash, paddle, and paddle-board wobble is 100% safe. Let’s pull back the curtain and meet them…
The leaders of the pack
Simon Potter – Activity Manager
Softest Bristolian accent you’ll ever hear, and apparently unable to start a meeting without someone shouting “Any luck catching those swans?” His calm, steady approach makes him the go-to guy when things get busy.
Jack – Line Manager Extraordinaire
Personal, approachable, always ready to listen – but also, somehow, the reigning champ of “lemon of the week.” Proof that even great leaders spill the odd metaphorical jug of squash.
Alyssa – The Grinner
No matter how tough the season gets, Alyssa’s huge smile makes everyone feel welcome. She’s the sunshine on rainy days (which is handy, because… well, Britain).
How we support schools
From the second your coach pulls up at Croft Farm Waterpark, expect a wave of waving JCA instructors (pun very much intended). Each group gets a JCA liaison instructor, who:
- Stays in touch with your staff every day
- Keeps sessions running smoothly
- Makes sure your ideas and feedback shape the week
Teachers often tell us how reassuring it feels to know the team are always checking in, listening, and adapting.
“This is our fifth residential at Croft Farm and it didn’t disappoint! The trip was really well-organised; the facilities are fantastic and staff are positive and enthusiastic.”
Tutshill
Helping pupils overcome challenges
Fear of heights? Nervous about being away from home? We get it. Our team’s motto is challenge by choice – no one’s pushed, but everyone’s encouraged.
One highlight this year? A pupil who was adamant she’d never try abseiling. After a week of gentle encouragement, laughter, and praise for every little step… she was the first one down the wall on the final day. That’s why we do what we do.
What makes Croft Farm special
- Family atmosphere – It’s a smaller centre, so everyone knows everyone. Pupils feel at home fast.
- Watersports focus – Paddleboarding, sailing, raft-building… the lake is our playground supported by the onsite Royal Yachting Association School.
- Team spirit – From JCA instructor Joe’s bizarre history facts (who else casually references French singers from the 60s to 10-year-olds?) to the nightly campfire banter, the vibe is one of belonging.
Safety + Fun = The Croft Farm way
Our instructors complete a rigorous 3-week training course led by Matt Smith, our training and compliance wizard (AKA our Compliance & Operations Manager). Every single activity is run with safety front and centre – but here’s the magic: pupils barely notice. To them, it’s just pure fun, because the safety is built in.
“The activities are always safe… and ALWAYS fun!”
Harry, JCA Instructor
Croft Farm isn’t just about watersports or activity sessions. It’s about a JCA team who go the extra mile to make sure your pupils leave taller, braver, and more confident than when they arrived (and probably muddier too). So, whether your pupils are ready to conquer the high ropes or just take their first nervous paddle on the lake, our JCA team will be right there – grins, safety checks, and camp songs at the ready.
Have you school seek adventure and pupils find their confidence with a JCA activity residential to Croft Farm Waterpark. Make an enquiry or call the JCA team on 01273 647 200
