Ridge Pole Shelters

Session overview

This practical session engages students in constructing a ridge pole tarp shelter in a forest environment. Pupils will learn and practise key knots and hitches, develop teamwork and problem-solving skills, and understand shelter orientation, all aligned with the National Curriculum physical and outdoor learning standards.

Learning objectives (WALT)

• WALT build a ridge pole tarp shelter (FS2.1)
• WALT tie a half hitch knot (FR1.4)
• WALT tie a timber hitch knot (FR2.1)
• WALT tie a sheer lashing knot (FR2.2)
• WALT build a tarp lean-to shelter (FS2.2)
• WALT choose a suitable location for a shelter (BST1)
• WALT erect a taut ridge line using easily untied knots (BST2)
• WALT secure tarp corners to trees/logs using appropriate knots (BST3)
• WALT angle a tarp correctly for fire safety (BST4)
• WALT dismantle and store shelter materials correctly (BST5)
• WALT demonstrate two appropriate knots for tarp building (BST6)

Success criteria

• Students can identify and demonstrate half hitch, timber hitch and sheer lashing knots correctly.
• Students collaborate to select a suitable, safe shelter site respecting the environment.
• Students erect a taut ridge pole line and secure tarp corners maintaining tension and angle.
• Students explain why tarp orientation is important for fire safety.
• Students can take down the shelter methodically and pack materials neatly.

Transferable skills

• Teamwork and communication while selecting site and building shelter.
• Active listening during demonstration and peer feedback.
• Problem-solving when tying knots and adjusting shelter tension.
• Responsibility and care for the woodland environment.
• Patience and perseverance through hands-on knot tying.

Starter (10 minutes)

• Brief circle discussion: “What makes a good shelter?”
• Show photos of different shelters; discuss environmental factors such as wind, rain, fire safety.
• Introduce goal: build a ridge pole tarp shelter using knots. Link to WALT and success criteria.

Input/modelling (12 minutes)

• Demonstrate choosing a shelter site considering flat ground, trees, water drainage and fire safety.
• Teacher models tying half hitch, timber hitch and sheer lashing knots slowly, using real rope.
• Model erecting a ridge pole line taut between two trees employing timber hitch.
• Show how to secure tarp corners with half hitch and sheer lashing.
• Explain and show how to angle the tarp lean-to away from the fire zone.
• Use dyslexia-friendly visuals and large, clear diagrams to reinforce knots.

Independent practice (15 minutes)

• Students in pairs select a site in the designated forest area using criteria discussed.
• Pupils practise the knots on spare rope. Teacher offers individual support.
• Pairs erect their ridge pole taut line using timber hitch.
• Attach tarp corners using half hitch and sheer lashing securing tension and angle.
• Teacher circulates, giving feedback and reinforcement.

Mini plenary (5 minutes)

• Gather students briefly to discuss challenges faced so far.
• Ask a few to demonstrate knots and explain their purpose.
• Check understanding of tarp angle importance related to fire safety and weather.

Independent practice (continued) (10 minutes)

• Students finish building a complete ridge pole tarp lean-to.
• Students take turns demonstrating how to safely dismantle the shelter.
• Pupils pack ropes and tarps neatly into their bags, reflecting on correct care of equipment.

Plenary (6 minutes)

• Whole group reflection: What did we learn about knots and shelter building?
• Recap the importance of location choice and safety.
• Celebrate teamwork and perseverance.
• Share any interesting observations or ideas for improvements.

Exit ticket (4 minutes)

• On small cards, students write down one knot learned and one safety consideration important when building shelters.
• Collect and quickly review to assess understanding and provide feedback the following session.

Lower ability

• Provide pre-tied example knots for reference.
• Pair with a peer mentor for guided knot-tying practice.
• Use simpler limb heights to erect ridge pole for easier handling.
• Visual guides with step-by-step pictures for multisensory support.

Higher ability

• Challenge to create a more complex shelter design incorporating the knots learned, e.g. double ridge pole or angled entry.
• Task to teach or demonstrate knots confidently to peers.
• Discuss environmental adaptations: waterproofing tarp, wind direction handling.

Extension activities

• Explore different natural materials as alternatives to ropes (vines, flexible branches).
• Investigate the historical and cultural significance of various shelter types.
• Introduce lightweight knot alternatives for backpacking shelters.

Cross curricular links

• Science: Explore weather and microclimates influencing shelter effectiveness.
• Design and Technology: Materials science relating to tarp fabrics, rope strengths.
• English: Technical writing task describing knot-tying steps or shelter-building process.
• PSHE: Building resilience, teamwork, and respect for nature through outdoor learning.

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This session is tailored to ensure all students, including those with SEND and SEMH needs, can access and benefit from hands-on, therapeutic outdoor learning, fulfilling the National Curriculum's objectives for physical education, personal development, and practical outdoor skills.