In the Classroom: Carnforth School's residential trips build pupils resilience and teamwork

FOR some pupils, this was the first time they had been away from home, so this experience was a real eye-opener and a fantastic opportunity to build their confidence. During assembly, the children spoke about what they learnt on their trip, they also shared stories and funny moments as well as all the exciting activities that they were involved in.

Aoife Ledger, class teacher said: “The children thoroughly enjoyed their trip away. Their behaviour was exemplary, and the teamwork was amazing, it was so nice to see them work together and help each other. It was great taking the children away because you can see them in a different light and outside the classroom. You can see their personalities and qualities really coming out. Residentials are really good for building resilience as well, it is something we strive to do in our work. They have learnt skills that can be transferred over into the classroom and provides a valuable experience for them.”

Sara Wood, who has been headteacher at the school for two and a half years, said: “They’re so witty and humorous and just so supportive and compassionate towards each other. For some children it was quite nerve wracking having that first night away from home.

“We are creating an environment at school where children are fulfilling their potential. We are giving them all the skills they need to make positive contributions to society. We have a social and emotional curriculum that goes in within our regular curriculum. We teach things like perseverance and resilience throughout our growth mindset philosophy.”

Adrenaline junkie, Austin Grubb, 9, said: “I enjoyed most the monkey climbing – I even got all the way to the top. The zip line was fun too.”

Martina Kuta, aged 9 said “I liked the monkey climbing. It was a tall tree which you could climb. It was very high. I was a little bit scared, but I would do it again.”

Alicia Branch, 9 said: “The Gladiator was my favourite. This was an obstacle course which was very hard. It was a race between us who would come first – I won.”

Toby Hall, aged 9 said: “It was the best experience of my life. There were so many fun things to do.”

Each year the school adopts a new theme where the whole schooling community follows. This year it’s “where in the world”, which encourages all the children to investigate different parts of the world.

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