We arrived at Barton Hall this morning after a good journey. We were met by our 'Groupies' Dan and Holly and were shown straight to the dorms. After being shown around the site, we had a good lunch and set off on the first 2 activities: abseiling, sensory trail or rifle shooting. It was then straight in to dinner before having a short time in our rooms. This evening's activity was an orienteering game around the site, finding flags from around the world.

Now, let's hope they are all tired enough to sleep all night so they can avoid having grumpy teachers tomorrow!

There are a few photos in the gallery below. Hopefully, we can add more tomorrow. 
 

TUESDAY:

Alas, it wasn't quite the great night's sleep we were hoping for! They were all far too excited to sleep and were raring to go in the early hours. The staff, however, weren't! Nevertheless, we were ready for a hearty breakfast at 7.30 and they all ate really well. A selection of pictures in the gallery show a variety of today's activities. Everybody has participated well and really enjoyed all the sessions. This evening, we rounded the day off with songs around the campfire and toasted marshmallows. The rain didn't dampen the spirits or the volume of the singing! Now, they're all in bed and hopefully tired enough to give us a peaceful night.

WEDNESDAY:

Hurrah! A whole night's sleep. Everyone woke up much more refreshed this morning and ready for the day's activities. All groups did archery tag for a session this morning. It was great fun, but difficult to photograph due to the safety masks! Apologies if you can't find your child in the photos today, some activities just don't lend themselves to pictures. 
This afternoon, four groups did survivor. They learnt to build a shelter and light a fire using flint and steel. And yes, they all survived! The other sessions were a mix of the zip wire and trapeze. 
Meal times remain a highlight: there is definitely no excuse to be hungry! 
This evening's activities were PGL games where they competed in teams. One day to go...

THURSDAY:

Our final day. We had another good night's sleep and were all ready for the day. Every group had a different activity this morning which kept us busy. Aeroball combines trampolining and netball and all children had a go at that today. Sadly, they are in a netting safety 'cage' so photos were impossible! Every group also had a go on the giant swing. Almost all of them had a go at being hoisted into the air and having to pull the release cord to swing down. It was hard work pulling the swing up every time and required great team work; however, the pay-off was being pulled up when it was your turn. 

This evening's activity was the silent disco, which was a real hit. Every single one of us joined in the dancing, accompanied by the 'groupies', who were dressed as bananas! We now have some very tired and sweaty children, who are trying to get all their clothes back in their suitcases. One more night and they will see you tomorrow. Hopefully, we'll be leaving here at 10am and should be back at school by 11.15am. I wonder if we can stay awake on the coach?!