An Outstanding Week in the Peak District

Outdoor education is a priority at Heritage. Last week, Years 5 and 6 went away for four days and three nights to an outdoor centre in the Peak District National Park. We have been using this centre for six years now. Pupils, staff and parent helpers sleep in tents but make use of a excellent kitchen and dining hall facilities for meals. We arrived on Tuesday afternoon and set up tents in light rain! The pupils had time to explore the site and play in the woods before supper, after which we played wide games. On Wednesday pupils alternated between caving in Stoney Middleton and rock climbing on Stanage Edge. The evening included a session on survival skills, particularly fire lighting. Mr Catley also provided exciting wood craft opportunities for pupils, including whittling sticks and making whistles during free times. On Thursday the conditions were perfect for a day hike out of Edale along the Pennine Way up Jacob’s Ladder, then along the edge of Kinder Scout and down Grindsbrook Clough back to Edale. Having lunch among the Wool Packs and playing in Grindsbrook were highlights. Friday saw us pack up before a final game of capture the flag and the return drive to Cambridge. All in all, an outstanding week where pupils could embrace new challenges, while enjoying being outdoors and having fun with friends.