History

The Allnatt Venues began over 80 years ago in 1924, when Joseph Allnatt, a visionary and entrepreneur, bought a dis-used aerodrome in St Mary's Bay, Kent and converted it into a Residential Centre for Schools during the summer and ran it as a Turkey farm during the winter! The Camp was huge, accommodating over a thousand children per week engaged in a vast programme of outdoor activities in the extensive grounds, and visits into the surrounding countryside. It was regularly visited by the Duke of York and was popularly known as the Duke of York's Camp and the School Journey Centre.

By the 1950s the organisation became a Limited Company, Joseph Allnatt Centres Limited, and it was time to move on. The Camp was sold and over the next ten years six smaller Centres were opened around the country in a variety of accommodation types.

At that time most schools ran their own programmes but during the 60s the Company adapted to the increasing need for Centre run programmes and developed a range of Teaching Programmes run by Centre Staff whilst the visiting teachers concentrated on pastoral care. It was clearly the way forward and very fulfilling for the energetic and committed Centre Staff. Many innovative ideas were introduced and the Company became one of the founder members of the British Activity Holidays Association (BAHA) set up to establish a Code of Practice for commercial centres. We have also been heavily involved with the development of the Institute for Outdoor Learning.

Having begun her career as a seasonal instructor, in May 1996, Denea Wright was appointed as Managing Director and Matt Piper was appointed as Financial Director. Over the next 10 years programmes and services were streamlined to provide more focus and a high quality experience for schools and groups who have become long term partners.

In April 2005, the Directors negotiated a Management Buy-out and have since built a sound and experienced Leadership Team at each venue to secure a sound future.