We decided to make it a company away day at one of our clients Cumulus Outdoors, a fantastic outdoor activity centre in Swanage, Dorset. The whole team were excited to spend a day together outside the office, focusing on collaboration and, of course, having a great time.

From the moment we arrived, the staff at Cumulus made us feel welcome and the fantastic instructors, Jack and Ry ensured that we were comfortable throughout the day. The weather was perfect, and the stunning views of Swanage Bay added to the already picturesque setting.

Team building

We began with a briefing about the activities planned for the day, and it was clear that a lot of thought had gone into designing the program. The team building games kicked off the day, and they were not only entertaining but also encouraged problem-solving and communication. We quickly discovered each other’s strengths, which helped us understand how we could work together more effectively.

One of the highlights was the “plank game,” where we had to line up randomly along a plank and then re-arrange ourselves in alphabetical order without stepping off. Not just amusing for the instructors, it was a great way to break the ice and get us all working together.

Axe throwing

Next, we moved on to the shooting range for axe throwing and air rifle shooting. With clear guidance from Jack and Ry, we broke off into two groups to get started. Some of us were much better than others, with some excellent double axe throwing from Joe and David!

Air rifle shooting

Air rifle shooting was next, the instructors took turns to show us how to safely use the air rifles, before we broke off into smaller groups to take turns on the shooting range. Each person had their own paper target, and tried to shoot out the middle bullseye. It wasn’t long before most of us started wondering what Jay-Jaye and Emily really did before joining Key, as they seemed to always be on target…

Lunchtime!

After an eventful morning, we were treated to a delicious lunch prepared by the talented chefs at Cumulus. The buffet spread catered to all dietary requirements, and the quality of the food was top-notch. Special mention to the mouthwatering brownies and pastries, which were a definite hit among the team.

Strategy time

After lunch it was time to discuss plans for the next year, and Cumulus graciously provided us with a well-equipped room. The comfortable seating and SMART board provided were exactly what we needed, and allowed us to discuss important matters in a great environment.

All feeling very inspired, we decided it was time to approach the bit some of us were feeling a little concerned about…

High ropes course

Assured that were definitely not the first group to use the brand new, state-of-the-art high ropes course, we nervously made our way there.

After safety briefings from Jack and Ry, members of the team took it in turns to climb the tower – with various tasks to achieve at the top – including having four people squeeze onto a tiny platform, hold hands and lean away from the tower! Exercises like this made us place trust in each other from the ground up in order to be successful, and this translates brilliantly back in the workplace.

Low Ropes

After we had all recovered from the dizzying heights, we separated into two teams to have a go at the low ropes. Completing various courses together such as navigating low ropes and stepping stones. Working together to navigate each course and (mostly) managing to complete each one successfully.

Block building

Back to the high ropes, we took it in turns to build the highest possible tower out of crates. Winning by one level were Emily and Allana who managed 17 crates, before being knocked over (after a few attempts) by the instructors.

Jacob’s Ladder

Jacob’s Ladder pushed us to think creatively and support each other in reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively. After a few valiant, but failed attempts by the rest of us, the dynamic duo Dave Mc and Joe managed to get to the top just as the sun decided to make an appearance.

Leap of faith

Finally, we had the opportunity to experience the leap of faith from the main tower. Although it was an individual challenge, the support and encouragement from each other made it easier to take the leap. As always, the Cumulus staff promoted the “challenge by choice” ethos so only those of us who wanted to did it with us all cheering on from the ground below.

What a high to end on!

Thank you to Cumulus Outdoors for an amazing day!