On Tuesday 16 September, a troop of intrepid Year 8 explorers set off from Cheney School burdened with light day bags of drinks and snacks. Their mission? To walk 5.7 miles through town and countryside, navigating pedestrian crossings, strolling alongside river banks and traversing fields of dangerous beasts (docile cows). With the promise of regular rest breaks and access to custard cream biscuits they journeyed onwards, making excellent time as they climbed the final hills and traipsed through woodland to reach their destination; Youlbury Scout Camp.

 

After a brief rest to the joy of their weary legs, followed by a hearty meal in the cafeteria, the wanderers were ready for their next challenge. Split into teams of teaching groups, each child tackled two of the following activities; ziplining, Jacob's ladder, tomahawk throwing and the inventively named "Mr Payne's Water Challenge...thing..." Staff supervising their endeavours reported that behaviour during these activities were excellent, and I'm very pleased to report that there were no casualties beyond a sprained ankle. After setting up in their camps and their second hot meal of the day, Team Cheney were led down to the campfire by their scout volunteers for a hearty sing-song and that most important of campfire activities - toasting marshmallows. After a balmy night in their tents, the gallant company indulged in a nourishing breakfast before wending their way back to Cheney school by foot. While their adventure was coming to a close, another party was venturing westward, eager to experience the joys of the camp, and a third band repeated this walk on Tuesday 23 September, getting a chance to show their archery prowess as opposed to axe throwing.

 

Mrs Robson, Ms Whitehall and Ms Hart would like to convey their thanks to the members of staff who gave up their time to make these three trips a resounding success. It's no mean feat to take over 170 students out on a residential trip, especially when each group is staying for one night only. Behaviour was excellent from the vast majority of the students and we really hope this experience has given them a taste of what amazing fun they can have undertaking similar challenges such as the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award in Year 9.