Reported by Mr Avis.
Our recent Year 5 and 6 residential to Winmarleigh Hall was, once again, a highlight of the school year so far. Just a short journey from home, this much-loved destination continues to offer our pupils the perfect blend of adventure, independence, and unforgettable memories.
That said, what makes Winmarleigh so special isn’t just the activities, even though the giant swing and zip wire certainly lived up to the hype. It is the way the children are involved from the start: choosing their activities, shaping their groups and taking real ownership of their week. This sense of independence and responsibility transforms the experience into something truly personal and empowering for them.
Winmarleigh’s team, especially Rebecca and Sam, went above and beyond to accommodate our requests, along with Megan at PGL Head Office who helps us organise things every year. They secured our preferred accommodation in Patten Block, gave us exclusive access to the games room, and added those extra touches like gathering together each night for a cup of hot chocolate, sharing stories, and winding down. These simple rituals—unplugged, unhurried, and full of laughter—reminded us that connection is just as powerful as the adrenaline from the high rope activities.
A huge thank you to our dedicated Prep staff with nine of you giving up your time to be there and your presence meant the world to the children. Whether for a day or the full week, your support helped make the experience so special. Even Mrs Ilhan and Mrs Blinston arriving for a midweek sleepover brought a fresh wave of excitement and energy for the group
We were incredibly proud of our pupils throughout the week. Their behaviour was exemplary, polite, thoughtful, and continuously praised by the numerous activity instructors. Our children demonstrated the Round Square IDEALS in action, showing leadership, compassion, and a strong sense of service. From helping and encouraging one another through challenges, they lived out the values we work so hard to embed in our school culture.
Residentials like this are more than just a break from routine. They help shape the kind of people our children are becoming; resilient, kind, independent and community-minded. And that’s why we’ll keep going back.
Thank you, Winmarleigh. See you again next year.
Have a wonderful half-term! From the Year 5–6 team
Quotes from the Week
1. “I was shaking at the top of the Zip Wire, but then I just counted to three and jumped. I still can’t believe I did it!” (Molly & Drew)
2. “I thought I’d miss my phone, but I didn’t even think about it once. I was too busy having fun!” (Raife & Drew)
3. “The hot chocolate at the end of the day was the best bit—it felt like we were all one big family.” (Daisy)
4. “I didn’t know I could be brave until I came off the Giant Swing. I was scared, but I did it anyway.” (Beatrice & Jack)
5. “The Silent Disco was amazing. Dancing with my friends in the dark with the music in my ears—it felt like we were in our own little world.” (Myla, Drishna, Aisha, Jasmine & Sienna)
6. “I helped someone who was homesick. We talked about our family and then we both felt better.” (Ava, Esme, Emily & Pandora).
7. “I’ve never laughed so much while trying to make my bed perfectly for inspection!” (Nicolas)
8. “I thought the Zip Wire would be terrifying, but it was actually the best thing I’ve ever done. I felt like I was flying!” (Sienna and Alexa)
9. “I felt proud because I tried everything, even the things I was scared of from last year.” (Hugo & William)
10. “I liked it how, as a privilege, Year 6 got to choose our own activities. It made it feel like our trip, not just a school one—your turn next time, Year 5.” (Austin & Tabitha).
11. “Toasting marshmallows on the campfire whilst being scared crazy by Mr Avis’s haunting story was epic.” (Molly, Amelie and Libby)
12. “Everyone said I was brave being one of the first ones to jump off the Trapeze, everyone cheered for me! Everyone was cheering me on.” (Ollie M).
13. “I learned that being kind is just as important as being good at something.” (Caiden)
14. “We made a pact to always remember this trip—even when we’re in Year 11!” (Winnie & Indie)
15. “I didn’t think I’d like being away from home and was homesick at times—but so glad I stayed.” (Ava & Sonny)
16. “The best part wasn’t just the activities—it was being with my friends all the time.” (Tabitha)
17. “I was scared of the dark, but after the campfire stories, I realised it’s not so bad when you’re with people you trust.” (Belle)
18. “I think I’ll remember this week forever. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had at school.” (Barnaby, Jack & Henry).