Introduction days in the Klimbos: the ideal start for bridge class and first-year students

22 January 2026

Why is a climbing forest a perfect fit for introductory days?

A new school year or a new course ideally starts with a good atmosphere. An introductory day in the climbing forest immediately helps pupils and students get to know each other in a relaxed and active way. This is all about working together, pushing boundaries and, above all, having fun together. The perfect basis for a strong and sociable year.

The power of active introductions

No static presentations or compulsory introductory games; instead, we enjoy going outside together. In the climbing forest, contacts develop automatically. While participants help each other on a wobbly bridge, cheer each other on an exciting crossing or laugh together at an unexpected misstep, a real connection is created, without it feeling forced.

Advantages of an introductory day in the climbing forest

1. A natural icebreaker

The shared challenge of heights and obstacles immediately creates a shared experience. Uncertainty about the new class or study group soon gives way to enthusiasm and team spirit.

2. Spontaneous group formation

Climbing automatically creates small groups that help each other. This often works much better than organised team building.

3. Everyone participates at their own level

With routes from low and easy to challenging and high, everyone can join in. Fanatics will find plenty of challenge, while more cautious participants can build up calmly.

4. Stories for the rest of the year

Experiences in the climbing forest become memories as well as talking points. “Remember when...” works binding for the whole group.

5. Quick group bonding

Physical challenges strengthen group cohesion faster than classroom assignments. The getting-to-know-you process gets a big boost.

Who is an introductory day in the climbing forest suitable for?

Bridge class (12-13 years)

The transition to secondary school is exciting. A day in the climbing forest helps bridge students to:

• Getting to know new classmates
• Meeting mentors in a relaxed setting
• Building self-confidence
• Immediate fine start to school

Many schools plan this day at the end of August.

Second grade (13-14 years)

Even in year two, an introductory day works binding:

• New classifications
• Meeting other teachers
• Restoring group bonding after summer break

Upper secondary school (15-18 years old)

Perfect as:

• Start of a new profile class
• Introduction to an exam year
• Active mentoring outing

First-year MBO (16-20 years old)

The climbing forest works extremely well for:

• Introductory weeks
• Team building within training courses
• Getting acquainted between learning years

First-year HBO/WO (18-25 years)

Ideal for:

• Introduction weeks such as OWee, KEI week, EL CID
• Student associations
• Mentor group activities
• Launch of training with focus on collaboration

International students

For international groups, the climbing forest is extra valuable:

• Language plays less of a role
• Moving together directly connects
• The activity is culturally neutral
• A relaxed way to integrate into a Dutch group

Frequently asked questions about introduction days in the Klimbos

Conclusion: the climbing forest is the introduction activity

An introductory day in the climbing forest brings everything together: fun, challenge, cooperation and a relaxed way to get to know each other better. The safe environment, professional supervision and ample opportunities make the climbing forest suitable for almost any group, from first-graders to university students.

Whether 25 pupils or 120 students, the climbing forest offers a natural, fun and effective way to start the school year or study period.

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