Basecamp is designed to provide pupils with a fun, challenging and rewarding introduction to life in the outdoors. As one of the first experiences of their Peterhouse journey, it offers every pupil the opportunity to develop greater self-awareness while building the foundations of social awareness, communication, teamwork and lasting friendships.

Held in and around Calderwood Park, Basecamp is a three-day adventure with two nights spent under canvas. The programme combines outdoor challenge with personal development through a range of exciting activities, including abseiling, basic First Aid and initiative-based tasks such as raft building, the pamper pole, ziplining and Jacob’s Ladder. Each activity is carefully designed to build confidence, resilience, trust and collaboration.

A key component of Basecamp is an intensive introduction to the essential bushcraft skills that underpin the Peterhouse Outdoor Education Programme. Guided by experienced instructors, pupils gain practical knowledge in fire-lighting, shelter-building, navigation, rucksack packing, equipment selection and outdoor nutrition, equipping them with the skills and confidence required for future expeditions.

To foster strong peer connections from the outset, pupils from Peterhouse Boys (PHB) and Peterhouse Girls (PHG) participate in the D Block Basecamp in single-sex groups.

Basecamp is led by Peterhouse staff, supported by experienced instructors from Adventure Campouts, ensuring a safe, professional and memorable introduction to the adventures that lie ahead.

The C Block Expedition builds on the experiences and skills gained during D Block Basecamp, placing a greater emphasis on teamwork, resilience and perseverance. As pupils grow in confidence and capability, the expedition develops the physical and mental endurance required for one of Peterhouse’s proudest traditions – the B Block Chimanimani Expedition.

This three-day, 45 km journey-style expedition takes pupils from Mare Dam Caravan Park via Nyangombe Falls and Nyamanziva Falls, culminating in the ascent of Mt Inyangani, the highest mountain in Zimbabwe. Pupils spend two nights under canvas, embracing the challenges and rewards of expedition life while strengthening their ability to work together and support one another in the outdoors.

Throughout the expedition, pupils continue to develop the bushcraft and hiking skills introduced at Basecamp. Fire-lighting, navigation, rucksack packing, equipment selection and outdoor nutrition are further refined through practical application, encouraging increasing independence and self-reliance in the field.

Pupils from Peterhouse Boys (PHB) and Peterhouse Girls (PHG) participate in the C Block Expedition in single-sex groups.

The C Block Expedition is led by Peterhouse staff, supported by experienced instructors from Adventure Campouts, who provide expert guidance and ensure a safe, challenging and rewarding experience for every pupil.

The B Block Chimanimani Expedition is a highlight in the Peterhouse Outdoor Education Programme, challenging every pupil to push beyond perceived limits and discover what they are truly capable of. Building on the skills and experiences gained during the C Block Expedition, it takes pupils into the rugged and demanding environment of the Chimanimani Mountains, where they are tested both physically and mentally. Through this shared experience, pupils develop resilience, determination and perseverance, returning with a profound sense of achievement and memories that will last a lifetime.

Set within Chimanimani National Park, the expedition is a five-day, self-contained hiking journey undertaken in tutor groups, with four nights spent under canvas. The route takes pupils through Bailey’s Folly and the banana groves, to iconic landmarks including Paradise Pools, before summiting Mt Peza, Mt Kweza, the highest peak in Mozambique, and Mt Mavenje (the Turret Towers). The expedition also includes camping in the spectacular High Valley, offering pupils the opportunity to experience one of the most remarkable wilderness areas in southern Africa.

Pupils from Peterhouse Boys (PHB) and Peterhouse Girls (PHG) participate in the B Block Chimanimani Expedition in single-sex groups.

The expedition is led by Peterhouse staff, supported by experienced instructors from Adventure Campouts, ensuring a safe, professionally managed and unforgettable outdoor experience.

The A Block Expedition marks a significant milestone in the Peterhouse journey and the transition within our Diamond Structure, bringing together pupils from across the Group of Schools as they prepare to enter the Upper School as classmates in a co-educational environment. It is a formative experience, designed to develop leadership, confidence, independence and mutual respect, while encouraging pupils to step beyond their comfort zones, embrace new challenges and build meaningful relationships as a unified year group.

Held in the Bubye Valley Conservancy immediately after pupils complete their IGCSE examinations, the week-long expedition offers a diverse range of practical and outdoor experiences. Guided by Peterhouse staff and expert instructors, many of whom are members of the Petrean community, pupils are introduced to skills including shooting, hunting and fishing, as well as preparing boerewors, biltong and campfire meals for their groups. A memorable solo night provides a unique opportunity for reflection, self-reliance and personal growth, challenging each pupil to develop confidence, resilience and a deeper understanding of themselves.

A defining feature of the expedition is a visit to a local community school, where pupils have the opportunity to serve others through meaningful engagement. By teaching science lessons, organising games and activities, and preparing and sharing meals with the children, they gain a greater appreciation of gratitude, kindness and the importance of contributing to the wider community.

Throughout the week, pupils strengthen their practical competence, communication, teamwork and accountability, while developing the maturity, character and sense of responsibility that will equip them for the leadership opportunities and responsibilities of their final years at Peterhouse.