Last week 7 pupils and 3 staff were fortunate enough to enjoy a residential experience at the Calvert Trust, Keswick on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, in the Lake District National Park.

With the weather on their side, they enjoyed a diverse range of outdoor activities including; Horse riding, archery, challenge courses and orienteering. A favourite with our group was the Trapeze swing.

“Would you dare leap from a suspended bar? Is it an optical illusion or can you really abseil that high? Do you trust the person holding your safety rope? A great personal challenge! How high do you dare go before pulling the release cord on the big swing? Well our pupils not only achieved this, they all achieved it TWICE!!!!”

To conquer the range of obstacles the challenges tested balance, skill and teamwork. Though great fun was had by all, the staff have many prize bruises as evidence of their participation.

The true spirit of the Lake District and views of wonderful scenery were enjoyed by all. Mr Roberts came to visit on Thursday and took part in the challenge assault course and was very impressed with all involved. Tory our designated leader helped everyone to achieve a measure of success.

There were tears when we left; Tory said ‘I have never worked with such amazing people with heaps of energy and personality’.

‘All of our pupils have experienced personal goals and success, which has led to substantial increases in their self esteem and social development. The experience will last a lifetime.’ Jackie B / Jan B

Marnie “The vertical jump was hair raising I had to walk the narrow plank before jumping down into open space.”

“I absolutely loved the swimming pool and jaccuzzi. You could press a button and a waterfall would pour down on you. It was amazing.” Paris

 Marla “The abseiling was awesome; I dropped down from a great height like a stone”.

“Zipwiring across the river was amazing, I whizzed through the air and crashed into a tyre at the end.”  Caleb.

“I’ve never been horse riding before. I loved the sensation of wobbling from side to side. It was so much fun.” Jordan.

Though very tired on the return journey all agreed that they would have loved to have stayed longer.