We’ve arrived safely in Bude after a long but fun coach journey, and a picnic lunch on the way. Who knew these city mice would be SO excited by the sight of a field of cows? Cosy rooms have been allocated and beds tested all before a yummy dinner of barbecue chicken with the difficult choice of toffee tray bake or ice-cream for dessert.  We are enjoying a range of evening entertainment from 5 aside football, karaoke to movie night, there’s something for everyone!  We are looking forward to an action-packed day tomorrow!

This evening, our eight groups met with their Bude instructors and looked back on their week of adventure. So much fun, so many hurdles overcome, so many memories. It was then time to hear which team had scored the most points and which six children had particularly stood out as Bottlers (overcoming challenges and fears), Jokers (bringing joy and laughter to all) and Superstars (all round champions) - two for each category. It was then party time. Just Dance and Timber was the final song of the night; Mr Cadman giving Mr Harvey a piggy back for the final manoeuvre. Part [...]

There were no early wake-ups this morning. Instead, it was the adults waking up sleeping bodies hiding in their bunks. But the world waits for no man, they say, and so morning runs and swims went ahead as normal. Today, the runners were challenged to find interesting articles along their beach run. Yesterday's theme was positivity.  Today, an entirely original phrase focusing on relishing every moment at this amazing place: I'm lovin' it. Whenever an adult asks how the children are doing or feeling, they must sing back (to the tune of a familiar fast food jingle) those words. We want [...]

Post afternoon activities, showers were both deserved and enjoyed by most and made mandatory for others (yes, boys) dodging good hygiene. The dry room now has a pungent aroma to it that either requires a deep breath on entry or a gas mask. The dorm hallway has been decorated with clothes that every child swears is not their's despite us being the only guests here. It's a good thing we are only here for one week! 😉 After another delicious dinner, including a heated debate on the adults' table over the difference between a chicken goujon and nugget, it was talent [...]

No, this post isn't about college spring break in the US; it's how Bude is best described today. The wind is howling, the rain is flying in every direction and the sea is a feral hound - but, in all honesty, it's not been too bad. The rain held off this morning and has never been too heavy this afternoon. Knowing such weather and conditions can take their toll, the key word of the day has been POSITIVITY. The children have been challenged to bee positive and make the experience better for themselves and those around them. To live life in [...]