Team Development Course (TDC)

The Team Development Course is open for students in the 5th to 12th grades. This 4 to 6 hour program uses a variety of challenging activities that together will improve communications among students and heighten their sense of community. Some of the many challenges that a group might encounter at Hemlock Overlook are the spiderweb, the pulley, the wall, or the famous 'Peanut Butter Pit'.

At each element the students are presented with a challenge, and are given the opportunity to work as a team to figure out how to accomplish that challenge. As with all activities at Hemlock Overlook we follow the philosophy of 'challenge by choice'.

Team Development Course
Grades: 5 - 12
Cost: See Booking Request Form
Duration: 4-6 hours
Sessions: Fall, Spring, Summer
How Do I Schedule A Program? How do I book a program?
Booking Request Forms Booking Request Forms
Summer 2007 - Spring 2008
Fall 2008 - Spring 2009



Learning how to utilize the various physical and mental strengths of the entire group is one of the main lessons learned. After each challenge the students are given a chance to reflect on what worked and didn't work in achieving their goals.

This program may be selected with or without a zip wire component, with the group size being limited for those selecting the zip wire option. Meals, campfire, or program add-ons can be added to the Team Development Course program for an additional fee. See Booking Request Form for current pricing.

Interested in a higher level of Team Development for High School Students?
Find out about the Advanced Team Development Course.

Program Add-Ons

Orienteering
Get back to the basics with this 4 hour hands-on course. Learn to find your way with a map and compass and master the basics of land navigation. Then practice on our orienteering course. No experience necessary. Price includes instruction, maps and compasses.
Available for grades 7-12

Recreational Canoeing
Deepen your appreciation for the natural world while enjoying a canoe trip on the Occoquan Reservoir. Beaver, white tail deer, and great blue heron may be seen. You will be amazed by the beauty and remoteness still hidden in Fairfax County. Price includes American Canoe Association certified guide, basic instruction, life vests, canoes, and paddles. No experience needed.
Available for grades 5 - 12

Service Project
Enhance a middle/high school teambuilding program by including a student service project. Add dinner and an overnight cabin stay. Follow a hearty breakfast the next morning with participation in Project Mulch. Enjoy lunch in the Lodge before returning to school.
Available for grades 7-12