Just before half term, our Year 5 and 6 students set off on an exciting residential trip to Winmarleigh Hall, nestled in 50 acres of beautiful parkland near the Forest of Bowland. For four days, this rural retreat became their playground, and what a playground it was!
Upon arrival, the children settled into Patten Block, unpacked, and geared up for their first round of activities. Bringing both year groups together is always the best option, allowing them to bond and expand their social circles in new and fun ways. Each evening, the children were grateful for their hot chocolate in a cozy common room, chance to unwind with hot chocolate and biscuits before bedtime.
Despite some unpredictable weather, the Winmarleigh staff worked their magic to ensure no one missed out on their favourite activities. These included raft building, fencing, trapeze, archery and the evenings were just as fun, with sing-alongs around the campfire, and a quiz and disco other nights. children learned a lot from the high-adrenaline activities and problem-solving games.
Raft building was a splashy affair, with everyone, including the staff, getting thoroughly soaked. Problem-solving tasks and orienteering activities fostered excellent teamwork skills. They demonstrated perseverance, initiative, courage, friendship, trust, leadership, teamwork, communication, compassion, and respect. Many of them grew in confidence and independence, especially those who were away from home for the first time.
Overall, it has been a big thumbs up for Winmarleigh Hall and all the PGL staff who made the trip so special. A huge thank you to the teachers – Mrs. Briggs, Mrs. Blinston, Mrs. Whitaker, Mrs. Hine, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Dreyer, and Mr. Avis – who helped create unforgettable memories during this ultimate adventure trip. Well done to everyone who tried something new or faced their fears!
I hope you all enjoy looking at our photo gallery for greater idea of what we got up to. We have included some of the children’s quotes below too, sharing their thoughts and feelings throughout the week.
Best quotes of the week were…
“I loved participating in all of the Winmarleigh activities, but my favourite was the trapeze and abseiling. It was such a rush to climb up so high and then jump off!” – Ivy
“I was bubbling with excitement while getting on the coach. I couldn’t wait to see what adventures awaited us!” Maise and Alena
“We had the most exhilarating experience! Every activity was so much fun, and I loved every minute of it, even the torrential rain!” Darcy and Beatrice
“The Silent disco was the best night ever! We danced and sang our hearts out, and it was a perfect end to first day.” - Nancy and Sofia
“It was the best residential I’ve ever had! I enjoyed spending time with the Year 5’s too, making new friends and improving my abseiling skills.” William H
“My joint favourite was archery tag because we got to battle against our friends. It was like being in a real-life adventure game!” – Al and Henry
“Abseiling was the best! It was scary at first, but once I started, I didn’t want to stop. It was such a thrill!” – Ellie and Daisy
“At times it was scary since I had never done it before, but it was still fun. I learned that it’s okay to be scared and still try new things.” - Harrison
“Even though I am frightened of heights, I conquered my fears and now I’m no longer afraid! I feel pretty proud of myself for pushing through.” Josh J and Lawrence
“Thank you to our PGL group leaders, Cat and Abbey, for being so much fun and teaching us so many new things. You made the trip unforgettable!” - Matilda
“It was so much fun, but it went too fast - I didn’t want to leave. I wish we could have stayed longer!” – Genevieve