With the weather looking grim and the prospect of getting very muddy looming, Year 4 embarked on a trip that, for some, would be their first time away from home. Excitement coupled with anticipation and nervousness was high. Since the middle of September Mrs Whicher and Mr Walker had been preparing Year 4 for this trip, explaining what would happen and what to expect and now the time had arrived.

Year 4 were accompanied by Mrs Bothwell and Miss Orbell as well as their intrepid class teachers! We were all impressed by the way in which year 4 threw themselves into it and tried their best in every activity.

Upon arrival at Bethany house we were greeted by Sophie, the manager and Myles, our group leader. Both of them were in charge of organising us, making sure we ate on time and got to the correct activity on schedule. After finding our rooms (and engaging in the annual problem of putting a sheet on a duvet, for some children!) the children were taken for the first of their 3 evening activities lead by Myles. Afterwards we began the task which haunts the dreams of every teacher on residential, bedtime!

Day two saw the beginning of the typical timetable at Marchant's Hill. We began with breakfast, which consisted of cereal and a cooked option; this was to become very popular as the weekend progressed! Afterwards we started the activities. This year is the first year we weren't doing ICT related activities. We had two activities in the morning followed by lunch and two in the afternoon followed by a much welcomed dinner.

The activities tested the children not only on a personal level but also on a co-operative level. Much of the activities required the children to work together and help each other to achieve the right goal. This might be helping each other to climb the many sections of Jacob's ladder or supporting each other as they individually conquered their fears and abseiled down a 40 foot tower. Many of the children agreed their favourite activity was the Giant Swing, the clue is in the title! Not even the teachers were safe. Mr Walker discovered just how unfit he was after completing the challenge course, on his knees! Miss Orbell proved (unsurprisingly) to be the sporty heroine of the staff by showing skill and grace upon Jacob's Ladder and putting the others to shame!

All the activities proved to be a huge hit. The wind and the rain couldn't put off the children as they attempted to climb the 40 foot tower even with their hands getting extremely cold, a true reflection of the children's positive attitude which all of us were proud to witness. Three children in particular stood out as exhibiting an outstanding attitude towards the whole weekend. Harry repeatedly conquered his fear of heights and attempted every activity showing excellent commitment. Ellie was chosen for her fantastic attitude to everything she did; we were so impressed with the way she was willing to do everything without hesitation. Imogen impressed us with her unwavering support and encouragement for others. She was the first to encourage others when they were unsure and comforted them when they didn't quite make it.

Upon our return it was clear that the children really enjoyed their experience at Marchant's Hill, not just from the chorus of songs filtering down the coach, but also the enthusiastic way in which they talk about the whole weekend. Well done all of you for making this years trip a very successful and enjoyable one.

(Lots more photos...)