Last Wednesday, 90 very eager Third Form pupils set off on their two-day residential trip to PGL, Marchants Hill. All were prepared for what was going to be a wet but exciting couple of days.
Led by Rob Young, form tutors and Lower School staff, pupils were divided into smaller, mixed groups, and headed straight to their first activity: the Challenge Course. This required teamwork and communication to overcome the obstacles and avoid the muddy ground.
A full programme of activities followed over the next few days – archery, rifle shooting, orienteering and aeroball – which certainly brought out the competitive side in some.
It was wonderful to witness so many pupils helping one another to overcome fears and challenge themselves in activities such as abseiling, the zip wire and giant swing.
Whilst we were away, two pupils – Emma Ayre (Wa) and Dev Sharma (GH) – celebrated their 12th birthdays and after dinner both were presented with birthday cakes to share amongst their friends.
On our last evening, the whole year group gathered around the campfire where pupils enjoyed singing songs, eating toasted marshmallows and gazing at the stars. They even performed their choir piece Circle of Life for the PGL instructors and staff.
Despite the weather, everyone got thoroughly involved, making and developing friendships along the way. Overall a very full-on trip that was enjoyed by all.
