Towards the end of September each year, our Head of Lower School, Mr Oatridge, along with the Chaplain, Mr Hutchings and the Assistant Chaplain, Mrs Martin, take all of the 1st Form pupils away for a 3 day residential. It is an opportunity for the year group to have time away from school where the can make friendships and lasting memories.
It is always an incredibly rewarding time, and this year was no different! The group stayed at the Rock UK Summit Centre in South Wales. From crate stacking (more exciting than it sounds!), to climbing, canoeing and kayaking – they were all kept extremely busy. They also enjoyed some downtime together, playing games and watching films.
As well as taking part in all the activities, our 1st Formers also spent some time about humility, kindness and teamwork - 3 attributes which we aim to instil and develop in all our pupils.
Following their return, Mr Oatridge commented, “I was so impressed to see all of the pupils ‘giving it a go’ which was one of the things I have encouraged them to do each day since joining our school family. ‘I can't do it yet, but I can give it a go’, is a really helpful mindset to have whether in lessons, on the sports pitch, in activities, boarding houses, at home and beyond.”