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 superstars (complete all rounders – wearing T-shirts like capes).

Then, the Superstar Team was announced; the team who gained the most all-round points for teamwork, courage, enthusiasm and room inspections.

Afterwards, a mad Just Dance fiesta ensued including a conga around the astro. Tired and sweaty, our group gathered for one final bedtime story. This time, the true story (they always are) of three young squirrel siblings – Mary, Michael and Julian – who overcame challenges, despite their differences, as a team – just like our Year 6s this week. The group reflected on the messages of the story, one of which links to the American beat poet Jack Keroac’s quote (ask them about Julian):

“The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars and in the middle you see the blue centerlight pop and everybody goes ‘Awww!'”

We leave tomorrow, after breakfast, at 9.30am.

One more blog post tomorrow.