Our First Day

After a terrific whole school send off and a good journey we arrived at a sunny Hilltop ready to begin our adventure.

The bedrooms were located and the pupils were delighted to discover that each room had an ensuite! Unpacking completed we ate lunch after a tour around and then set off for our first challenge of the week – learning how to create a fire in groups, toast marshmallows on sticks and heat our own boiling water for hot chocolate. It was really quite technical, which type of twigs and sticks to use when, which shape to create, how to use a flint to create a spark etc. The sense of achievement was immense and providing their heated snack was thoroughly enjoyed.

An assault course was the next challenge, causing hilarity yet concentration and balancing skill. Louis found that teamwork was incredibly important when everyone pulled together to help him through the tyres and Charlie realised too late that he needed to slow down and focus when negotiating planks over water – he had the first soaking but saw the funny side.

After much needed showers and a delicious birthday tea (William blew out all his candles on his cake), we all played a game of space hopper football which was really quite difficult and our cheek bones ached from so much laughter. After a quick game of proper football with all pupils and staff we explored the pirate ship and lookout, we could see the sea and a gorgeous view across to Sheringham.

The tuck shop, welcome refreshment and a much needed rest in our lounge area followed, where I left everyone to drive back. They were about to go to the games room, table tennis and pool tables before bed.

Everyone had gained so much from the first day such as independence, a sense of achievement, team spirit, collaborative working as well as so much laughter. They were all eagerly anticipating what is to follow today. As Ajay remarked “this is the best school trip ever!”

Mrs Palmer will add to this blog daily when she is able but may not be able to upload photographs with limited wifi. However, she will do her best to do so and will continue to update you throughout the week. It was a lovely first day and was such a pleasure to be a part of their fantastic experience.

Mrs J.Bowles

Ready to prepare their fires with silver birch twigs