PES Ascent Group pupils enjoy a weekend of team-building fun at Chrishall Grange

2 May 2019

Charlie Toff (Year 10) shares his experience of the PES Ascent Group trip to Chrishall Grange.

On the last day of term, a group of 31 ‘bears’ and ‘stags’ made their way to Chrishall Grange, a small patch of woodland in Duxford.

The next morning, the main troop arrived on camp, completing the troop of 271 students. The excitement was palpable as everyone waited eagerly for the opportunity to explore their home for the next three days. Afterwards, they returned to their area to set up the tents and settle in. The 24 patrols quickly put up their dining shelters and teepees before taking part in a fun-filled sectional activity and eating their lunch.

That evening, the students fell in for flag down, marking the end of their first day on camp after which they went to prepare and serve dinner. As night drew in, the day ended with a troop campfire with everyone singing songs, drinking hot chocolate and reflecting on the day.

The remaining days included a carousel of exciting activities such as air rifle shooting, field archery, archery tag, orienteering and much more. The third day ended with a whole troop ‘Epic Wide Game’ with a smuggling theme based on the Berlin Wall. As heavy fog settled around the camp, students had to sneak custard creams across the ‘border’. After the Fire Section were crowned winners, the troop enjoyed campfire time.

The last day consisted mainly of packing down all 24 patrol sites and 5 HQ sites, accounting for all kit as well as clearing up and packing away all activity sites. As the PES flag came down, pupils quietly listened to the sound of the The Last Post.