That is the overview of the recent Y9 Camp, but it doesn’t do justice to the fact that due to COVID, this was the first major trip of their secondary school lives for many of the students.

We travelled to Blacklands Farm near East Grinstead on four coaches. For the next two days students took part in a range of adventurous activities from kayaking to mountain biking and high-ropes to problem-solving.

The teachers were delighted with how well Y9 worked together in various teams, looked after each other when challenges presented themselves and made new friends.

Parents were also very happy with one saying, “My daughter went, enthusiastic but a little nervous, she came back buzzing. Loved the activities, chatting to new friends, having fun.” Another let us know that, “this is the first time she’s been away on her own... It absolutely did not disappoint, especially with the amazing weather.”

Many, many thanks to all the people who put a great deal of time and effort into making this happen and to Y9 for embracing the opportunities so enthusiastically.

Mr Tothill, Teacher of History and Trip Leader