The following activities available to schools have been listed in order of popularity with teachers and leaders, as per feedback we have received over the past 30 years in Killary.
1. Kayaking
For many students kayaking may not be new to them but kayaking with their classmates can be a whole new experience. Each person may have different abilities and some may even be nervous of the water so working together will be important and patience with each other essential. Many of our games played while in the kayaks involve teamwork too.
2. Gorge Walking & Cliff Jumping
Usually done in combination with kayaking this activity offers adventure, personal challenge, fun, team building and the chance to experience the outdoors while being completely immersed in it.
3. Laser Combat Games*
Combining fun and team dynamics, the Laser Combat Games remain very popular with school and youth groups. Students will be so busy having fun as they work on achieving the aims set by the Killary instructors that they will not even realise the benefits that their teachers will recognise!
| 4. High Ropes |
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The High Ropes Course is very much a group activity and works best when participation levels are high. Between being involved in each other’s safety, physically assisting each other along the course and encouraging those who are struggling, this is one of the most popular Killary activities for school groups.
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| 5. Climbing Tower & Abseiling |
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The Climbing Tower and Abseiling is as much about mental endurance as it is about the physical. There is no easy route to the top but everyone can make it if they stay calm, assess the situation and plan ahead! The buzz of abseiling from 70ft is definitely memorable!
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| 6. Killary Challenge |
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The Killary Challenge is a superb team activity and really great for those who need to get to know each other better and bond with others in the group. Leadership, communication, lateral thinking and teamwork are all challenged by this task-based activity. And best of all there is some fine Connemara mud involved!
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| 7. Giant Swing |
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The Giant Swing can also be a big personal challenge for anyone who has a fear of heights. Doing this activity in pairs gives the students an opportunity to help each other and move outside of their comfort zones together.
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| 8. Turf Challenge |
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One of our newest activities and gaining in popularity as part of our schools’ programme it really is our best all-round activity. With our National League for Schools word is spreading and schools are requesting to do this activity above others. It is a race, a team challenge, a personal challenge, hugely entertaining and so much fun.
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| 9. Zip Wire |
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The Zip Wire is another of our adrenaline activities involving a challenge to the students which if successful is rewarded by a huge buzz and the satisfaction of overcoming fears and boundaries. Working in pairs they will share an experience that will bond them with their fellow students.
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| 10. Archery |
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Archery is sometimes dismissed by groups as lacking true adventure, but the enjoyment involved can really surprise participants. Students can work in teams or individually and concentration and focus are all important. Less active members of the group do not feel excluded by this activity and have a chance to excel.
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| 11. Orienteering |
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As a shorter activity Orienteering has many advantages for school/youth groups which includes educating students on map reading, environmental awareness and teamwork while they get to know a magnificent part of Connemara.
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| 12. Hillwalking |
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A physical challenge for many but a very rewarding one, hill walking can bring your students on old Famine tracks, along the Western Way or to the summit of a rugged peak. They will need to work hard, encourage each other and will be involved in the planning and preparation of their walk.
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| 13. Ringo Rides* |
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Ringo Rides are very popular with under 18s! This is a perfect activity if you are coming to visit us in the warmer months and would like to include an activity that is excitement-packed and bound to please.
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| 14. Sailing |
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Choosing sailing for your students during the months of April to October can be a real treat as the scenery will be breathtaking and the experience is guaranteed to thrill. However this activity is very weather-dependent and so a back-up plan is usually needed! Better suited to small numbers.
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| 15. Rockclimbing & Abseiling |
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This activity is done on the rock face on the slopes of the surrounding mountains. The benefits are similar to those of the climbing tower but the engagement with the environment and nature is greater. Our climbs are off the beaten track so your students will be removed from all that is familiar.
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| 16. Speedboat Trip* |
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As well as the thrill of the speedboat ride the students will be shown interesting historical and geographical features along the way. Famine villages, features of glaciation, fish farms and abundant wildlife will all be visible. Speedboat trips can be weather-dependent and are better suited to small numbers.
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| 17. Bungee Jump* |
| The Bungee may seem to be simply an adrenaline rush but the benefits to school groups are surprising. The personal challenge involved in completing a Bungee Jump can be enormous and the encouragement of peers can make the difference between the participant succeeding or not. |
(Note that activities marked with * attract a surcharge. A bungee jump is for those aged 14+ only and a consent form needs to be signed by a guardian for those under 18)