Our Year 7 students recently set off for an exciting residential trip to the shores of Lake Windermere, ready to embrace challenges, forge new friendships, and have an incredible time outside of the classroom! This key part of the Year 7 experience is all about building unity, learning teamwork, and pushing personal boundaries in a supportive, fun environment.

Arriving at YMCA Lakeside, excitement was high as students jumped straight into a jam-packed schedule of outdoor activities. From raft building by the lake, mastering archery skills, to conquering The Blue Tube challenge, there was no shortage of adventure, problem-solving, and, of course, laughter!

We caught up with Year 7 students to hear their thoughts on the trip, and here are just a few of their highlights:

• “I learned new skills, gained confidence, and really improved my communication with others. I also made new friends and strengthened existing friendships!”
• “I loved how our groups helped everyone become better friends!”
• “Jumping in the lake after raft building was the best – we didn’t care how wet we got; it was all about having fun!”
• “ I loved how pretty the scenery was and the rafting, but these are just a few things I enjoyed but my favourite thing was definitely spending time with my friends and of course the food.
• ” I think it was an amazing trip. I loved doing abseiling because I was the first one to do it in my group and I got VERY nervous. I also enjoyed rafting as we got to play and jump in the water after with our friends which was very fun.”
• “” The best thing about the trip was swimming in the lake after our raft collapsed!
• ” The campfire was the best activity because it brought everybody together and the staff made it really enjoyable”
• “Sharing rooms and having hot chocolate at the end of the day with friends made everything even more special.”

The trip was packed with unforgettable moments, whether it was sharing stories at the end of the day, working together on The Nightline, or showing creativity in raft building. Year 7 students returned with strengthened friendships, boosted confidence, and memories that will last a lifetime.

A huge thank you to our fantastic staff and the team at YMCA Lakeside for making this trip one to remember! Here’s to more adventures ahead!