Sapphire Class visited Lambourne End for an overnight residential trip. Lambourne End is an outdoor and adventurous activity centre which gave pupils the opportunity to challenge themselves, learn new skills and spend time together outside the classroom.
The pupils arrived at around 10am, settled into their rooms and met the instructors who would be leading the activities over the two days.
The first activity was rock climbing. After putting on their specialist equipment, pupils showed lots of determination and physical resilience as they worked their way up the climbing wall. This was followed by abseiling, where pupils had to listen carefully to instructions and trust themselves as they made their way back down. There were lots of relieved smiles at the bottom and a real sense of achievement.
After a short break, the class moved on to raft building. Pupils worked together to design and build a raft, developing their teamwork and knot tying skills along the way. Once their creations were complete, they tested them in the freezing pool water. Despite the chilly conditions, spirits remained high as pupils worked together to navigate their rafts around the pool. One pupil particularly enjoyed this activity, saying, “I liked the raft building and we worked as a team.”
Later in the afternoon, Sapphire Class took on the ropes course. The challenge was simple: try not to fall into the muddy stream below! Pupils demonstrated excellent balance and coordination while encouraging one another to keep going. One pupil was especially proud of their achievement, saying, “I completed all the ropes course and didn’t fall in once!” The class showed fantastic support for one another and it was wonderful to hear the cheers and encouragement throughout the session.
The ropes course also created some memorable moments. Another pupil reflected on the experience and said, “I liked the ropes and I dived in and rescued my friend.” This comment perfectly summed up the teamwork and friendship that pupils demonstrated throughout the trip.
The evening was much more relaxed, with the group gathering around the fire pit to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Before returning to school, Sapphire Class visited the farm where they met a variety of animals and asked lots of interesting questions. The bees were a particular favourite and pupils were fascinated to learn more about how they live and work.
The class returned to school tired but proud of everything they had achieved. Throughout the residential, pupils challenged themselves, supported one another and embraced new experiences. It was a fantastic trip filled with adventure, teamwork and plenty of memories that will last for a long time.