Day 1: Monday 30th June

For the first time since 2008, 35 Year 7 pupils arrived at East Barnby Outdoor Centre, excited for a full week of adventures and outdoor activities. After a short introduction by the centre staff, we were shown to our dorms for what turned out to be our first challenge - making beds. More practice needed at home, I think!!

Following a tour of the site and lunch (for those who hadn’t already eaten it on the coach), challenge 2: squeeze each of our hot, sweaty bodies into a wetsuit in 30° heat, and a short drive to the beach.

It was definitely worth it, because it was a perfect afternoon for cooling off bodyboarding. Everyone gave it a go and we all had great fun.

After a very busy day, just before midnight, finally, all quiet in the dorms ZZZzzzzzzz ….

Day 2: Tuesday 1st July

The boys' dorm was up bright and early! Today's activity was canoeing on the River Esk. It was a real challenge for some of us to get our canoes going in a straight line, but communication, teamwork and resilience were the keys to success. 

Day 3: Wednesday 2nd July

Wednesday involved a day at Scaling Dam Reservoir, mastering the art of sailing and windsurfing. It poured with rain, but other than that, the conditions were just right; our pupils showed real strength of character and quickly grasped the techniques.

Day 4: Thursday 3rd July

Thursday brought truly fabulous views as pupils spent the day rock climbing. Many had to conquer a fear of heights, but everyone gave their best effort, with some even revealing themselves to be natural climbers. When not scaling the rock face, they learned to belay each other responsibly and offered strong encouragement to their peers.

Day 5: Friday 4th July

For our last morning at East Barnby, some pupils chose to take part in one final adventure and headed off for a river scramble. Apart from being a lot of fun, they learnt to assess challenges, make safe choices, and help each other to ensure everyone was supported. Others headed for the beach for a more relaxing morning and a last dip in the sea.

Over the five days, all the pupils worked incredibly hard to develop their teamwork skills and we saw their resilience develop with each challenge. It has been a great way to round off their first year at Risedale School, and we look forward to many more adventures together in the future.

I would like to thank all of the pupils for their enthusiasm and our amazing staff, Mr Allen, Mrs Cox, Miss Douglas and Mrs Vizor, for giving up their time and supporting everyone throughout the week.

Mrs Hailwood (Senior Teacher and Trip Leader)

#TeamRisedale 💙💜🧡❤️ #BEST

RESPONSIBILITY  RESPECT  RESILIENCE  RELATIONSHIPS