Highlight of the Week

Year 7 Bonding Weekend

With the holiday behind us, the first weekend of the term saw the majority of Year 7 speeding up to Shropshire for a weekend at Manor Adventures near Craven Arms. The purpose of the trip was to develop the relationships between the Year 7 pupils, integrating those new to the school with those who have been within the community for some time. After a smooth journey to the centre, which included a rest stop for lunch, the group were welcomed upon arrival by competent, friendly and professional staff.  As school policy denotes, fire drills, health and safety procedures were carried out and then fun began.                                                         

The party were split into 5 groups, who under the leadership of the instructors and followed by a member of staff, participated in the following activities over the 2 days: obstacle courses, Manor Olympics, Initiative exercises, survival, canoeing and kayaking. Oh, and how could we forget the 100m zip wire through the trees (the screams could be heard across the county and that was just from the staff). There was a wide choice of food and the portions were generous, however, the pupils still found room for the produce on offer from the Manor's vending machines, where healthy options were available but not always chosen.  The students were a credit to the school and the weekend's goal of bonding together to overcome the challenges set by the centre were achieved together through determination, co-operation and enthusiasm. I would like to thank the staff that accompanied me and the students, their help was invaluable.  Mrs Critcher deserves a mention as her organisation over the Holiday ensured the smooth running of the trip, thank you.