Year 4 take on their first residential

A group of Year 4 pupils headed to Thriftwood for their first residential, taking part in a range of activities and new experiences.

On Friday, 15 May, just before half term, our Year 4 pupils set off for Thriftwood Scout Campsite.

There was a mix of excitement and nerves as the group arrived. For many, this was not just a school trip, but their first night away from home. However, it did not take long for those nerves to be replaced with enthusiasm, as the children quickly threw themselves into a packed programme led by both Thriftwood staff and our own POE Society team.

Across the day, groups took part in archery, soared along the zipline, raced on pedal cars and worked together in team-building challenges.

By the evening, everyone was ready to slow down. The campfire brought the whole group together, with Upper School students joining to lead songs. It was a chance for the children to reflect on the day, toast some marshmallows and enjoy the experience together.

After an exciting day, they spent the night in dormitories, which was another new experience for many of the group.

Clare Cassidy, KS2 Teacher and Head of Drama, said: “We were all so proud of the way the children coped with their first night away with school. For many of them this was their first night away from home ever! They were such ambassadors for the school and many fond memories were created.”

We are all incredibly proud of our Year 4 pupils for how they embraced their first residential. From the exciting activities to the new experiences, it marked a truly important moment in their Year 4 journey. This first residential is an important part of the trips we offer at The Perse, giving pupils their first experience of a night away from home with school.