Monday 10th November
Day 1
Much of our coach journey to Pendarren was through driving rain and, coupled with an awful weather forecast, there was more than a little apprehension among the adults about the outdoor activities. That did nothing to dampen the spirits of Year 6, however, who arrived full of life and ready for the week ahead! This enthusiasm appeared to drive the clouds away and before we knew it the sun was peeking through, lunch had been eaten and we were ready to explore. For groups 1, 3 and 5, this meant an afternoon of bushcraft. First, they constructed weather-proof shelters with minimal materials and huddled inside to face the brunt of a fierce storm (the instructor emptying a watering can over their humble structures). Later, they had a chance to toast a slice of sugared apple over an open fire, watching it caramelise or, in some cases, burn to a crisp. Meanwhile, groups 2, 4 and 6 strode intrepidly up to the windy summit of Sugar Loaf and were lucky enough to have a clear view from the top. Activities continued back in their dormitories as they learned how to put a duvet cover on a duvet, albeit with slightly less excitement… Food tastes better in the countryside and there was no better evidence of this than 62 children devouring their evening meal. Plenty of positive energy so far and many thrilling moments ahead!
