Wales Residential
Our first residential of the year took place between Monday 2nd October until the 6th October in Aberdyfi in Wales, and was jampacked full of exciting activities for the kids and new experiences.
Arriving in Aberdyfi
On their first day, no time was wasted on arrival, as students were fully immersed into the natural environment with a 'Jog and Dip', followed by a picnic for some groups and beach combing for others, while all groups discussed their individual and group goals for what they wanted to get out of the week ahead.
Some groups focused on building self awareness and self confidence, while others aimed to grow their independence and leadership skills.
All students took part in activities that helped them reach their goals, trying new things such as gorge walking through waterfalls, rock climbing or jumping off a jetty into the sea. Students supported each other and worked together, showing excellent teamwork.
Each group had the opportunity to spend over 24 hours away from the site, starting with an all-day hike through the wilderness. Students spent the evening prior helping each other prepare and pack for the busy day ahead, and taking responsibilty for their equipment for the journey.
Armed with bags almost as big as them, and walking for up to 9km, with some groups ascending a mountain peak and completing environmental awareness tasks, all students ended their hikes by setting up camp in a remote log cabin. In the evening students showed their self sufficiency, helping to prepare their evening meal, and set up their belongings. After completing a feat of resilience and determination, students reflected on their day, and shared their fears, hopes and dreams with their new found friends.
Students continued to take part in a range of activities, growing an awareness of their natural environment, setting goals and taking responsibilty for each other and themselves.
Groups worked collaboratively, which some taking part in another 8km hike through a quarry, showing perseverance and resilience in the high winds and slippery terrain. Others were involved in canoeing, kayaking or rowing followed by a facilitated discussion and personal reflection time.
Let Us Out
Students were also involved in the Let Us Out Campaign, supporting the proposed Outdoor Education Bills in Scotland, Wales and England so every child can experience an outdoor residential before they leave school.
Day five was a sad day as it was our last, but students were able to review the week, recognising and celebrating their achievements as well as giving a huge thanks to their instructors from Outward Bounds that had worked with them throughout the week.
The final activities highlighted that heights were no longer an obstacle, as students braved a challenge wall, abseiling and swinging from a very high trapeze, showcasing just how much they had grown from their time in Wales.
Thank you to Ms Sandhu for organising, to the staff that attended, and to all the staff who supported in school during the week. This whole school collaboration ensured that this action packed week was life changing and unforgettable.
Lordswood Boys' School • Hagley Road • Harborne • Birmingham • B17 8BJ
Tel: 0121 464 2837
Email: enquiry@lordswoodboys.co.uk
For paper copies of any of the information on this website please refer to our publication scheme