Complete your Gold DofE Residential at Blackland Farm Outdoor Centre, an independent outdoor activity centre set within 127 acres of Sussex countryside at RH19 4HP, near East Grinstead.

Our Gold Vounteering Residential combines comfortable camping accommodation, full catering and a varied programme of volunteering projects, giving you the opportunity to try new things, challenge yourself and meet other young people from different backgrounds.

Throughout the week, you’ll take part in a range of activities, which may include:

Groundworks and Conservation – get out and about in our 127 acre estate helping to care for our ancient woodland and natural wildlife population.
Building Maintenance – learn basic tool use and put your skills to the test with basic maintenance and upkeep of some of our buildings and facilities onsite.
Some of our adventurous activities to round off your week – a range of challenges designed to encourage teamwork, communication and problem-solving

Food & Independent Living

Full catering is included in the fee, with participants also getting involved in planning and preparing their own meals.

As part of the residential experience, the group will learn to budget for food, plan meals and cook together, with support and guidance from our instructors. It’s a great opportunity to develop practical skills and independence while working together as a group.

You’ll stay in comfortable camping accommodation onsite, with everything you need for a relaxed residential experience between activities. Being based at Blackland Farm means you can make the most of our extensive grounds, woodland, streams and activity areas throughout your stay.

The Gold Residential is a chance to step outside your usual routine, take on new challenges, learn practical skills and share an adventure with a new group of people - while completing the residential section of your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Location: Blackland Farm Outdoor Centre, Sussex, RH19 4HP
Accommodation: Comfortable camping accommodation onsite
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Food: Full catering provided, with participants involved in budgeting, meal planning and cooking

We also offer a 5-day activity residential at Blackland Farm Outdoor Centre on 2nd-6th August 2027.

Gold Volunteering Residential (16-20th August 2027)