On the evening of Wednesday 18th March, while most pupils were relaxing at home, Caitlin Arling (8Gückel) was preparing to face a scorching challenge at the National Coal Mining Museum for England in Wakefield. Caitlin took part in a professional firewalk organised by UK Firewalk, a feat that required nerves of steel and a steady foot. The venue was described by organisers as a very apt setting for walking across hot coals, and Caitlin certainly rose to the occasion.

Caitlin approached the challenge with a level of maturity that impressed everyone involved. After attending a safety briefing to learn the necessary techniques, she stepped up to the glowing embers. Her mum noted that Caitlin took the whole thing very seriously and that "her confidence and determination were genuinely impressive." In fact, “she absolutely smashed it - three times!” Beyond the personal challenge, Caitlin’s Firewalk also raised money for a good cause.

Reflecting on the event, Caitlin said, "I was a little bit nervous at first, but then when I watched the instructor do it, I thought, Yes! I can do this, and it was an amazing experience - I loved it!"

The whole Risedale Family is incredibly proud of Caitlin’s bravery and RESILIENCE. It seems this is just the beginning of her adventurous hobbies, as she is already looking forward to trying out horse riding and quad biking next.

#TeamRisedale 💙💜🧡❤️ #BEST

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