Year 7 Embrace Adventure on Wilderness Camping Trip

From the moment they arrived, students were thrown straight into the wilderness experience. After setting up camp, they tackled the challenge of fire lighting using flint and steel, motivated by the reward of cooking their own burgers over the flames they created. While fires crackled, creativity sparked as students designed flags for their tribes before taking on the next challenge: shelter building. Their constructions were then enthusiastically “sold” to teachers in a hilarious estate agent-style pitch. Had the weather been kinder, Mr Enticknap might even have spent the night in the winning design—but the rain had other ideas! The evening ended on a sweet note with marshmallow toasting, games, and plenty of laughter around the campfire.

Day two brought more challenges as the students learned first aid skills, putting them to the test when they “discovered” the scene of a staged plane crash during a woodland walk. With staff members playing the roles of injured victims, the students had some questionable loyalties—cheering when Mr Enticknap was declared to have no pulse ('no more homework!') and swiftly rescuing the ever-popular 'Steve', one of the tribe leaders. Miss Di Chio even enjoyed a rollercoaster-style stretcher ride to safety! Whilst it was all in good fun, it highlighted the importance of first aid training.

As the weather improved, students rotated through a range of activities, including pizza making, bracelet crafting, whittling, and lively outdoor games. Campfire songs and hot chocolate brought the second day to a close, with everyone ready for a well-earned night’s sleep.

The final day included trap making, a thrilling Bushcraft Challenge, and special birthday celebrations for Freddie and Flo. Just as spirits were high, the coach home decided to join the adventure by breaking down a mere ten minutes from camp. The students handled the delay brilliantly—playing games, chatting with tribe leaders, and making the most of the unexpected sunshine.

A huge thank you to all the students for their enthusiasm, teamwork, and patience throughout the trip. It was an experience filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of mud—one that will be remembered for years to come.