On Monday the Year 3 pupils travelled to Condover Hall, Shrewsbury for their residential. This was a special occasion for BCS as this was the first time Year 3 have ever been on an overnight residential away from school. Having tucked into their sandwiches, the children were then guided to their dormitories to organise their area and make their beds. Once that was complete they were straight into their first activity – raft building, climbing, rocket launch, orienteering, the laser maze, and archery. Even though the weather start to deteriorate a little, the Year 3s were not deterred. They persevered happily, even those who slipped into the cold lake off the raft they had built as a team. The group were then entertained for the evening by Giant Cluedo which proved very loud and enjoyable for the pupils before they organised themselves for lights out at 9.15pm.
Into the second day with some early wake ups and after filling themselves at breakfast the Year 3s were getting stuck into their activities once again. This was all done in glorious Shropshire sunshine with pupils always smiling and showing great manners to the JCA Condover Hall instructors. A quick bite to eat for lunch and then on to the afternoon activities, with a total of 4 activities in a day for Year 3. Once the final activity of the day was complete the pupils had their evening meal. Later, the pupils were mesmerised by campfire with the songs, chants and dances proving ever so popular and great bonding for Year 3; a great way to finish a superb day. Some tired pupils then strolled back to their dormitories for their final evening.
On to day 3, a very sleepy group awoke and were tasked with organising their rooms so that all their belongings were packed, even trying to ensure every sock they bought to Condover Hall was taken home – which can prove to be a difficult task! Once the rooms were spotless, it was off to breakfast and then ready for the final activity. Pupils then gathered on the Buttery Field at Condover Hall and were given a certificate presentation, had their lunch and ventured onto the bus to leave and return back to BCS.
A memorable couple of days that would not have been possible without the help of all the BCS staff, the JCA Staff, and lastly the attitude and hard work of the pupils on the trip. The children were amazing and showed true BCS values throughout. A fantastic trip with lots of fun, smiles, and enjoyment had by all!
Mr Gregory