The final evening saw our groups meet with their instructors on the astro pitch for silly games with laughs aplenty: dressing their instructors up, spinning around a broom stick and racing in a straight line and many more whacky challenges. After that, it was to the hall for Just Dance time - it's always hilarious seeing adults and children spinning each other around and doing piggy backs to the likes of Timber and Kung Fu Fighting (some dancing has been posted on Instagram). Then, there were the awards. First, two Bottlers - individuals who have particularly stood out in overcoming their [...]

Our final day was, in the words of Mr Kenny, a 'rippper'. With the super moon's spring tides pulling the ocean over the sea pool, it was a run for everyone today. Hash bowns, bacon and Coco Pops down us, we jumped out for our final day of fun and it was yet again incredible. Reflecting on this week, we must be thankful - our Christian value at school this half term. - Thankful for the beautiful weather that has left us sun kissed and smiling. - Thankful for the instructors who have been bundles of enthusiasm and kept us all [...]

We've had another fun-filled evening with sports events outside, movies and a talent show. The staff at the centre were gobsmacked by the talent performed by St Mary’s. Needless to say, there were some terrible stand up comics too! Once concluded, everyone settled down for Part 2 of the squirrel adventure which finished with an unlikely hero: a banjo playing squirrel by the name of Julian. Donna helped us reflect on times in our lives when we might moan or groan a little (I'm sure parents have experienced this before at home) but challenged us to see the good where we [...]

There's something comforting about waking to blue skies and sunshine. Added to the crisp seabreeze, it's the perfect way to wake up. After a good night's sleep and a longer lie in for all, we bustled off to our morning run and swim - both refreshing and invigorating. This morning was pastries from breakfast - yum! Following on from yesterday's high-octane thrill ride of activities, there was no stopping today: Surfing and body boarding: Canoeing: Mountain boarding: Throughout all these activities, teamwork has been key. When in the canal, the most efficient canoes glide through the water when the canoeists are [...]

One thing we have to say about this group of St Mary’s adventurers is they don't do things by halves. It was party fancy dress this eve... After the dancing, catwalk and limbo competition, it was time for another story - this time part one of an adventure involving three squirrel triplets - and words from Donna helping us appreciate the miraculous gift that is our bodies. Now, as I write, everyone is safely in their rooms, well and truly 'cream crackered' from the busy day but with that wonderful sense of satisfaction buzzing within. A demain.  

Good news: everyone slept well. Yay!!! The day began like all days should (well except the piercing alarm) with everyone outside in the fresh air appreciating the morning in all its glory and giving our bodies some exercise. One group ran to the Signal while others braved the chilly sea pool. Without even time to dry off or get change, we dived into the dinner hall for the English culinary feast that is a Full English - fuel for the heart. Rejuvenated, groups set off for their activities: 1. Canoeing. 2. Surfing 3. Climbing 4. And high ropes We were stunned [...]

Only two weeks into Year 6 and our three classes of children arrived at school on Monday morning weighted down by baggage that certainly wouldn't meet Easyjet's overhead cabin restrictions filled with excitement about the week ahead. Our young adventurers were going on an adventure of a lifetime. Five days of fun-filled action in Bude, north Cornwall. Cruising down the M4 with the sun's smile upon us, after three hours, we stopped at Taunton services to refuel our bodies. Energised by our sandwiches (and of course sushi and houmous made an appearance), Bon Jovi's 'Livin on a Prayer' rang out: "We're [...]

Children and staff are super excited that it's only one week to go before they venture off to the south west of England to Bude, Cornwall, for five days of challenge, adrenaline, teamwork, friendship and much more. Watch here for daily updates next week to see all the fun we get up to.

A good night's sleep: check. Breakfast consumed: check. Travel sickness pills administered: check. Bags packed: check (but a painfully long process). Rooms cleaned and beds stripped: check (equally, if not more, painful). 90 children and eight staff on two coaches departing on time: check. And so we bid farewell to Adventure Bude in Cornwall. It's been a week to remember. Occasional tears, the odd fall or trip, heaps of laughter, jug fulls of memories and bucket loads of achievements for everyone. Memories of a lifetime. Thank you parents/carers for giving your children this opportunity - for paying, for  packing and for [...]

For the final shabang of the week, children, tutors and St Mary’s staff shuffled into the large marquee for the final celebrations and shenanigans as the sun set for us for the last time in Bude. After games and fun, it was a chance to celebrate EVERYONE'S incredible efforts for the week - everyone getting a certificate. Following that recognition of everyone in our wonderful group, the eight group tutors nominated two bottlers (those who overcame their fears - wearing T-shirts over their heads); two jokers (those who were a constant source of fun - wearing T-shirts like trousers); and two [...]