Our Prep children recently returned from an unforgettable residential trip to the Conway Centre in Anglesey. The week was packed with adventure, teamwork, laughter and plenty of memorable moments.
The excitement started straight away with raft building on the Menai Straits. One group built a very successful raft, while another ended up with a few children taking an unexpected dunk in the freezing cold water! Thankfully, the only real casualty was a single Wellington boot, which is now providing a new habitat for marine wildlife somewhere at the bottom of the Straits.
After drying off, the children took part in orienteering around the site. It turned out to be much harder than we first thought, but everyone enjoyed the challenge and worked brilliantly together to find their way around.
Day Two was one of the highlights of the trip as the children experienced sailing on the Menai Straits. Everyone had the chance to try the different jobs on the boat, including steering and controlling the sails. At times, it felt a little scary when the boats tilted sharply while travelling at speed, but the children showed fantastic courage and enthusiasm throughout. Later that evening, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the Nightline challenge and discovered just how well they could rely on their other senses to navigate the tricky rope course without using their sight.
Day Three brought climbing, the zip line and low ropes activities. It was wonderful to see the children encouraging one another and building resilience as they tackled increasingly difficult challenges together. We also completed the Conway Challenge, searching around the site to solve clues and answer questions.
Our canoe adventure took place on Day Four as we paddled along the Menai Straits to a hidden cove. There, the children enjoyed abseiling and bushcraft activities in a truly beautiful setting. The day ended perfectly with an instructor-led campfire where we toasted marshmallows, created music using natural objects and our voices, and shared stories together around the fire.
By Friday morning, getting all of our bags packed and out of the accommodation before breakfast felt like one final challenge, especially after such a busy and exciting week. Somehow, we managed it! Before heading home, the children enjoyed more bushcraft activities, including building shelters, lighting fires and, of course, eating even more marshmallows.
The coach collected us just after lunch, and everyone returned home tired but very happy. We were incredibly lucky with the beautiful weather throughout the week, enjoyed excellent food and took part in so many fantastic activities. Most importantly, the children made wonderful memories, developed new skills and strengthened friendships along the way.
Thankfully, the Bank Holiday weekend gave us all a chance to rest and recover before returning to school on Tuesday after such an amazing week away.
Categories: Prep 3 Prep 4 Prep 5 Prep 6 School Blogs
