Young People Discover Orienteering at Hough End as Part of National School Sports Week
20 July 2026
Young people from primary, secondary and SEND schools across Manchester came together at Hough End Playing Fields recently to enjoy a day of exciting orienteering activities delivered by British Orienteering as part of National School Sports Week.
The event provided a fantastic opportunity for pupils of all ages and abilities to experience the challenge, adventure and fun of orienteering in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Throughout the day, participants took part in introductory training sessions and age-appropriate orienteering courses around the park, developing navigation, decision-making and teamwork skills while exploring the outdoor environment.
The activity day was delivered through British Orienteering's ongoing partnership with Team MCR and the Manchester Outdoor Education Trust (MOET), building on two years of collaborative work to develop outdoor learning opportunities across the city. Through the partnership, education staff have been trained and supported to deliver orienteering activities, while Manchester's parks and green spaces have been utilised as accessible venues for young people to experience the sport close to home.
The Hough End event showcased how orienteering can engage a diverse range of participants, with SEND pupils, primary-aged children and secondary students all taking part in tailored activities that promoted confidence, independence and problem-solving in an outdoor setting.
The day also formed part of wider efforts to increase awareness of the British Schools Orienteering Championships, which will take place at Heaton Park, Manchester, in November. By introducing more schools and young people to the sport, we hope to encourage greater participation in the Championships.
British Orienteering would like to thank Manchester Outdoor Education Trust (MOET) for their continued partnership and commitment to expanding outdoor learning opportunities, as well as Greater Manchester Orienteering Association (GMOA) for their ongoing support in helping grow orienteering opportunities across the region.
The event demonstrated the growing strength of school and community partnerships in Manchester and highlighted how outdoor activities such as orienteering can help inspire young people to become more active, develop new skills and gain confidence while having fun.
With preparations already underway for the British Schools Orienteering Championships later this year, the future looks bright for school orienteering in Manchester and beyond.
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