The aim of the trip was to take students out of their comfort zone and encourage them to try out new and challenging activities whilst improving their teamwork, resilience and communication skills and boosting their confidence.

Jessica Doran, 13, said she really enjoyed the raft-building.

She said: “It was the first time I’d done anything like that. We had to build a raft out of the materials we were provided with and then try to get across a lake on it. It was quite difficult but we did manage it and then at the end a few of us jumped in; it was freezing.

“We also got the chance to try abseiling, rock climbing and gorge scrambling. That involved climbing across lots of rocks in a river and going through rockpools.”

Ellie Neads, 13, said the trip was a great opportunity to bond with other students.

She said: “It was nice to meet people in our year group who we didn’t know properly. It was just really nice to bond with people. We all had a great laugh and it was nice that we were altogether in a completely different place.

“We don’t get the opportunity to do these kinds of activities at home, it was just something completely different. The gorge scrambling and canoeing were really fun.”

Dave Warden, trip leader, was one of the staff members who accompanied students on the trip.

He said: “We began our trip with teambuilding and orienteering activities and throughout the week students took part in a range of outdoor education activities.

“Students camped out for two nights, cooked their evening meal and either assembled their tent or took it down.

“The week finished with a small awards ceremony with night prayer and short affirmation.
“All students approached the activities with enthusiasm and it was lovely to see real bonds and friendships being built over the week. I would also like to say a big thankyou to all the staff who accompanied the students on the trip.”