Last week Years 1 and 2 spent two glorious days at Weardale Adventure Centre, taking part in a range of activities including crate stacking, bushcraft, night lines, canoeing, crystal, adventure treks, games and team building activities. The experience of being away on the trip with friends, and a night away from home was beneficial to all; children, teachers and even parents! An obvious benefit of this residential trip was an immediate boost in confidence. Leadership skills naturally emerge in a residential environment, and it was a joy to see Year 2 helping the Year 1 children carry their suitcases upstairs just like they themselves had been helped last year. Clearing tables, serving their own food, making beds, and organising belongings and clothes, are all experiences the children benefit from doing independently. These types of experiences can move children out of their perceived comfort zones and facilitate a new learning and social environment. For many children, this was their first time staying away from home without any family members. The sense of independence and adventure generated sparked excitement and self-belief in even the timidest child, developing their resilience and self-confidence. One of the most important things to say about our residential trip is that the children and teachers walked away from it with memories that they will cherish and an experience that will add to their academic journey. 

On returning to school Year 2 has enjoyed highlighting achievements of their friends. ‘My friend impressed me by…carrying on even though she was on her own crate stacking, showing bravery when he was really scared, being very kind when I was upset, showing some excellent canoeing skills, by giving clear instructions when I was trying to do the obstacles in night goggles, being really helpful when I couldn’t get to sleep and making me laugh and having lots of fun in the team games’.

I am very grateful to all those of you who took the time to pass on your thanks and appreciation. May I also take this opportunity to thank Miss Woods, Ms Bulman, Miss Gemma and Miss Emily for their time, enthusiasm (even in the pouring rain) and support. It was such a fabulous experience for us all. Thank you for putting your trust in us and giving us the privilege of enjoying such a great time with your children. 

Mrs Kirsten Knight, Head of the Pre-Prep