“The aim of the trip was to give the children an opportunity to experience the countryside and to develop their sense of wonder and awe. It is hoped that they, in turn, will introduce their families to the joys of the countryside. Our school is in an area high on the Index of Multiple Deprivation and has approx 90% of pupils with English as an additional language. We are in an area of dense housing with no outdoor play facilities and whilst there are two local parks within walking distance, few children are allowed to play unsupervised there.

The children participated in abseiling/high ropes, orienteering, survival skills, and team building exercises. They also learned about the different habitats in the area and studied rivers on a riverside walk. The trip allowed them more freedom and opportunities than they have at home, enabling them to grow in confidence and become more independent. The team building activities demonstrated the importance of co-operation and since the outdoor experience they have benefited from this in school.

All the children enjoyed their activity trip. One child said he did not want to go home; another, who might be considered ‘difficult’ at school, developed into an excellent team leader, displaying confidence and creativity. The stay was described as brilliant and exciting.”

“I was privileged to accompany 38 children and three staff on a five day activity holiday to Whitehough. As a teacher I feel the whole experience is especially rewarding for the children – they are given opportunities to take part in activities they have never tried before. Most of the children who go to Whitehough have never been away from home before and for some, it is their first experience of a holiday. It is a perfect opportunity for them to share time together away from their home setting. They are expected to work together as a team, respect themselves and each other, and work co-operatively during planned and social activities.

Many of the children come from socially and economically deprived backgrounds and the staff accompanying them, and the Whitehough staff, work hard to ensure the children experience as many opportunities as possible to enrich their time at Whitehough.

Preparation before the visit is meticulously done as regards risk assessment and pre-visit meetings with the parents and children, ensuring every child is prepared for the week. During the week, the children are taught a great many skills including problem solving, climbing, mountain biking and survival skills to name just a few. During the evenings, they are given further opportunities to develop social skills, sharing activities and enjoying the social time. For the first time children are given chances to experience co-operative living with people who are not part of their families. The Whitehough staff always comment on the gratitude and good manners of the All Saints’ children and their willingness to take part in every aspect of the week.

Thank you for the funding provided to support the children, without which many would be unable to afford the full sum for the residential trip.”

“Our school is situated on the periphery of the town centre which is a built up area. This contrasts with the opportunities that Petty Pool affords, with its provision of outdoor activities within a safe and secure environment where the children have the freedom to explore and discover new and exciting things about the countryside.

The children were challenged with a climbing wall, zip wire and other activities requiring harnesses, visited a farm, went for an evening walk in the woods, had free play on an adventure playground, and even found time for a ride on a miniature train. They experienced dining together inside and outdoors for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as having a BBQ one evening. The children couldn’t wait to tell their parents and peers back at school.

They had wondrous experiences and their enthusiasm was infectious. Without the Trust’s invaluable support, half the children would not have been able to go. Thank you.”