Last week, Class 3 enjoyed a trip to Wildside for their annual residential. For some children this was the first time they had stayed away from home, camped in a tent or used a compost toilet. Wildside is called the Wildside experience for a reason and the children really embraced a unique way of living albeit just for a couple days. 

The trip started with a bit of free time and an exploration of the grounds. Wildside boasts large flower meadows and secure woodlands for the children to enjoy. The sun was shining and the children were fully enjoying time in the shade. We decided it would be a good idea to bring the river walk forward to help cool everyone down. The children enjoyed walking through the cool river and some even took on the dunking challenge. After a short moment drying off, we headed into the woods for some butterfly catching, zipwire fun and woodland games. 

As the evening drew in, the children enjoyed their locally produced vegetable curry and prepared for the evening walk. We waited for it to get dark and headed up into the woods for another chance to explore. The highlight for most children was the glow stick trail where the children follow a trail of glowsticks through the woods in complete darkness. Upon reaching the end of the trail, we took a moment to watch and listen to the bats who were frantically feeding on the moths and midges. 

It was around 1am by the time we got to bed and the children were awoken the next morning by the sound of Richard's violin. We headed up into the woods for some morning reflection time before breakfast. Just before leaving, we had some time feeding the animals and learning about their daily routines. 

This trip is always popular amongst the children because of the jam-packed schedule, freedom and late night. I was so pleased to see so many of our Christian Values shining through throughout our experience and the children represented the school and themselves impeccably. I know the Year 3s are really looking to returning next year whilst the Year 4s move onto new experiences and trips. 

Well done Class 3,

Mr Manning