Y6 Residential Trip to Peat Rigg – Day 2 Diary Blog

After a surprisingly peaceful night’s sleep (with only a few reluctant risers needing a gentle nudge this morning), the children were up bright and early – 7:15 to be precise – ready to dive into the second fun-filled day at Peat Rigg. There were a few sleepy faces, understandably wanting a bit longer in bed, but once they caught the smell of breakfast, energy levels began to rise!

A hearty feast awaited – bowls of cereal, stacks of toast, and a delicious cooked breakfast for those with an appetite to match the adventure ahead. With full bellies and big smiles, it was time to split off for the morning’s activities.

Some headed into the woods for bushcraft, where the challenge was to source dry wood – not easy after the morning rainfall! Though with some persistence and teamwork, the children managed to get fires going and proudly watched the results of their efforts flicker and crackle. Meanwhile, some others were up high, harnessed in and facing the zip wire. It was amazing to see their determination and support for one another as they put themselves out of their comfort zone, scaled the tree, traversed the tightrope, and jumped off the ledge and dodged the falling pine cones.

After a well-earned lunch, the afternoon brought even more adventure. Some groups faced Jacob’s Ladder – a giant challenge that pushed teams to work together and climb as high as they could, helping each other with every rung. Others took to the lake, where canoeing needed paddling and steering skills, and of course teamwork to overcome the aquatic challenges and tests – culminating in a deluge of splashes and some impressive belly flops and salmon jumps.

Just before dinner, there was just enough time to grab a quick warm shower, before refueling with fajitas.

As the sun began to set, the evening activities began. The children took on team games designed to build trust and communication – gutter ball, swamp cross, nuclear reactor, mine-field and ski-Sunday – all were tackled with perseverance and ever improving teamwork.

Before our final night, the children had the important job of room tidying in preparation for the ‘room inspection’. Marks out of 10 were given for cleanliness, order and the obligatory welcome party and occasional choreography.

By bedtime, it was clear the day’s adventures had taken their toll – lots of yawns, rosy cheeks, and happy chatter as children went to bed, tired bodies and minds full of happy memories. We can’t believe our final day is nearly upon us.