Supporting young people through outdoor experiences and creative digital learning in photography and filmmaking.

Registered Charity Number: 1178645

Challenge

Develop

Inspire

Our Mission

We work with young people across Greater Manchester to build confidence, improve mental well-being, and develop practical skills through a combination of outdoor activities and creative digital projects. By engaging with nature and learning new techniques, our participants are inspired to explore their potential and discover new opportunities.

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What We Do

We deliver programmes that blend outdoor exploration with digital creativity. Our sessions are carefully designed to help young people:
• Build resilience and confidence through outdoor challenges
• Learn practical photography and filmmaking skills
• Improve well-being by connecting with nature
• Express themselves creatively and develop a sense of achievement

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Our Story

The Outdoor Collaborative was established in 2018 by a group of trustees from Saddleworth with a shared belief in the power of the outdoors. What started as local walks quickly evolved into a structured programme combining nature, creativity, and support for young people at risk of isolation or disconnection.

We’ve since developed partnerships with schools, youth groups, and local organisations to reach even more individuals, providing consistent and impactful support through our projects.

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Our Approach

Our work is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: when young people are given the chance to learn, create, and reflect in natural environments, remarkable things happen. Participants leave our programmes with more than just new skills—they gain confidence, direction, and a deeper connection to the world around them.

The photographs and films they create are shared with potential employers, education providers, and the wider community—showcasing their talents and helping open doors for future development.

Recent activity

Adam Ward

Trustee

Adam has served in the Army with the Royal Engineers (RE) from the age of 16, for 6 years. Whilst serving in the RE Adam had the opportunity to visit many countries in the world ranging from Canada to Iraq and in his final years, served in Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD). This is where Adam gained valuable life skills from a young age. After this, he decided to train as a Commercial Diver working in the North Sea, the Middle East as well as helping to salvage the Costa Concordia Cruise ship. 4 years later Adam decided to become a Working at Heights Training Instructor. This is when he found his passion for training and helping other people. He has also started a Bachelor of the Arts (BA) (Hons) Design, Innovation and Business Management Degree.

Emma Kenyon

Trustee

Emma has worked in a variety of industries, including media, travel and most recently education. She has a degree in media studies which lead to employment at a professional football club as a graphic assistant. She has since worked for leisure and business travel companies, with a passion for travelling which has taken her to Australia for 12 months, as well as living in Vietnam for 5 months. Working in education, Emma has been an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher in Manchester and abroad, here she found a new love for working with, and helping, people from all backgrounds and cultures. She has a keen interest in outdoor activities, and has a great understanding how being active is good for both physical and mental health.

Andrew Fairclough

Trustee

Andrew Fairclough is a dedicated and passionate individual who has made a significant impact in the field of outdoor education and recreation. As a trustee for the Outdoor Collaborative, Andrew has dedicated his career to advancing the organization's mission of fostering a love for the outdoors, environmental stewardship, and experiential learning.

In his current role as a trustee for the Outdoor Collaborative, Andrew Fairclough plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization's mission. The Outdoor Collaborative is a non-profit dedicated to providing outdoor experiences, education, and adventure to people of all backgrounds. Their programs are designed to instill a sense of environmental stewardship, leadership, and teamwork in participants while nurturing a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Drew Fivey

Trustee

Drew began her career in hospitality working in the corporate hospitality sector where she lead teams in large venues including Wembley and Silverstone, moving quickly up the ladder to fulfil her role as marketing and events manager. She went on to secure a Bachelor of the Arts first class honours degree in Events management in order to further her knowledge of the industry and gain a real insight into the process and theory behind both small and large scale events. Four years later, Drew has been successful in setting up her own craft company where she designs and creates bespoke nursery and home décor, finding her true passion for designing and arts flare. Alongside running her business, Drew is currently studying for a Masters degree in Business Management where she hopes to learn the skills and knowledge to drive her venture further and widen her management abilities.

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Email us

info@outdoorcollaborative.org

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+44 (0)7376246940

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