Frequently asked questions

Are you open to the general public?

Yes, but all activities require pre-booking. Some activities need to be set-up, or we may need specialist trainers on the premises, so we need to know in advance who is coming.

Can we book on the day?

No, sorry, for most activities we need at least 24 hours notice.

How do I book?

The booking process varies depending on group size, age, activities, etc, so please give us a call and we will make sure you get the relevant forms if necessary.

Due to the complexity and individual tailoring of each course and to ensure we continue to offer you a personal service we have decided that it is not feasible to publish current availability or make the working groups list and activity options available on the website.

How long has Skern Lodge been operating?

First opened in 1976 and moved to current site in 1982. The owner/managers work on site full time.

What qualifications do the instructors have?

All instructors are qualified in the activities they instruct. All have a first aid qualification and those that work (not walk!) on water have beach and pool lifeguard. For high elements the Single Pitch Award from the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is the norm and for remoter walking either Summer Mountain Leader or Walking Group Leader also BMC qualifications.

Kayaking is run by British Canoe Union (BCU) Level 2 Coach (kayak)/UKCC BCU level 1 and 3 star sea or above coaches. A Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Power Boat Instructor drives the powerboat and supervises beginners. All other activities are covered by a carefully designed in-house training system. Qualifications are available for inspection.

What is the ratio on activities?

On the majority of activities the ratio is 1:8 but we never exceed the ratio advised by the Governing Body of that sport.

What about the weather?

What about it? On the whole activities are carried out regardless of the weather. Each morning and just before starting any activity an assessment is made about the weather. Sometimes strong winds can make kayaking unsafe or winter cold may make surfing unsuitable. In these cases great alternatives will be found. Safety is never compromised.

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How safe is it?

There is risk in all we do in life and outdoor activities are no exception. We cannot say there is no risk but careful management reduces this to a very acceptable level.

We are regularly inspected by several bodies: Adventure Activities Licensing Authority, BCU, RYA, Health & Safety Executive, many Local Education Authority inspectors, the insurance company, company health & safety departments and several others. Furthermore, we have and regularly review risk assessments not only on all the activities but on fire safety, kitchen hygiene, bunk beds, security and stair cases to name but a few.

The BMC have published a booklet 'Young People - Climbing, Hill Walking, Mountaineering - A Parents Guide' which contains a good explanation of the risks associated with activities. Please click here to download the document.

N.B. We have looked at the option of putting Health and Safety documents such as the risk assessments as downloadable items on the website. However, as part of our ongoing quality assurance, these documents are continually being reviewed and updated so we have decided to continue with e-mailing them on request.

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Will I be made to do the activities?

Certainly not, Skern is about success and positive outcomes. The programmes are all designed to have a variety of activities so that in a stay of a few days you will find, hopefully, all activities fun, some easy and some more challenging. No one will be made to do an activity they do not want to but equally we will encourage you to have a go. Skern is a great place to learn more about yourself and to achieve more than you thought you could.

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How secure is it for young clients?

Again, this area is risk assessed. Firstly they will never be off site unsupervised. The buildings are locked at night (but they can easily exit if they had to eg fire) and all windows have restricted openings. There are both Skern staff and group leaders resident on site. The gates are locked at night and the site well lit. All staff are carefully checked to ensure they are appropriate to work with children. All instructors have CRB checks. When unaccompanied children visit, a Skern member of staff is allocated as “house parent”.

Will there be other groups in at the same time?

Almost certainly. We are always very careful with our client mix. However, there are three completely separate accommodation units that are individually secure.

I have a food allergy, will I still be able to eat!?

Of course. The food at Skern is renowned for quality and quantity. We always have vegetarian options and can cater for any dietary requirements but please let us know in advance.

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What equipment do I need to bring?

Only personal effects – clothes, shoes, towels etc but you will be sent a kit list before you come. All adventure equipment is provided, it is modern, checked regularly and has quality standards where available. All bedding is provided but once again no towels so you do need to bring these.

What about transport to activities?

Many of the activities are on site. For those off site then either a local coach company is used or, more normally, one of our minibuses. These are PCV vehicles run under an operators license and as such checked very regularly. All drivers have PCV licences. Of course working seat belts are provided to each seat.

Do I need much extra money?

Very little. Almost everything is included and any extras will have been clearly detailed before you book. We do have a small shop on site that sells toiletries, sweets and drinks, postcards and T-Shirts etc. There is also a small bar for adult clients so some “pocket money” is advisable but not necessary. There are soft drink vending machines on site.