What a brilliant first day we’ve had on our Year 2 residential!

We arrived safely at the centre and got straight to work unpacking and making our beds – which was very entertaining to watch for some of us! There was lots of laughter, a few upside-down duvet covers, and plenty of teamwork as friends helped each other get organised. After all that effort, lunch was very much deserved and enjoyed.

In the afternoon, we headed to the bushcraft area for our first big adventure. The children learnt how to build dens using natural resources, thinking carefully about how to make them strong and sheltered. They also had a go at lighting a fire using a flint and steel and cotton wool, listening carefully to the safety instructions and showing great resilience when it didn’t work on the first try. The staff at the centre were very impressed with their listening, cooperation and enthusiasm.

After a hearty dinner, we wrapped up warm and went back outside for our evening woodland walk. Armed with torches and lots of excitement, we explored the woodland area and went on a magical search to find The Magic Tree. The children loved spotting shapes, shadows and little details in the trees and leaves as dusk settled around us, and there were plenty of imaginative stories shared along the way.

To end the evening, we returned to the centre for hot chocolate and a biscuit, which went down a treat after all that fresh air. Then it was time to get snuggled into beds for our first night… or so the teachers thought! Let’s just say it was a late night for many, with lots of whispers, giggles and excitement about being away with friends. Everyone eventually settled, and we’re looking forward to seeing what adventures Day 2 will bring.