IOW – Day 1

A fun-filled afternoon!

After a smooth sail on the ferry (a new experience for many), the excitement was building as Year 6 approached their destination: Little Canada. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our enthusiastic group leader Amber who certainly solidified herself as a reliable and humorous group leader. The first, and to some the most important, event of the day followed: lunch! The children were so pleased with the range of food on offer for lunch, with pizza (pepperoni and vegetarian), soup and a salad bar; Timmy certainly made the most of the olives in the salad bar, and Inigo, Emmratu and Daniel all commented on how tasty the food was – the pepperoni pizza proving a particular highlight for many.

With full stomachs, all four groups headed to their first activity: Groups 1 and 2 tackled archery, whilst Groups 3 and 4 experienced the thrills of the Matrix. It was clear to see that within the cohort, there are a fair number of children who fancy themselves as the next Robin Hood: Tamara-Ann, Joe and Gabriele amongst them. During this activity, all the children showed excellent perseverance, with Saron explaining that she had been inspired to achieve success by archers she has read about during Year 6!  After swapping activities, Matrix was experienced by Groups 1 and 2 – the anticipation was palpable as the children were uncertain of what this event had in store. Matrix was an excellent opportunity for all children to apply and develop their skills of teamwork, perseverance, listening and communication; the children partook in ‘Crystal Maze’-style riddles and team games to escape from rooms and complete the activity course. The brother and sister team of David A and Queennet proved unstoppable as the task leader Max commented on their superb teamwork as part of their wider group.

Once all groups had completed their two activities, the children visited the tuck shop and treated themselves after a tiring first day; it is safe to say that at the moment, snack supplies are high– but for how long remains to be seen. After the thrill of the tuck shop, the children made their way to their cabins to settle in before dinner. With many children having discussed sleeping arrangements, the children settled quickly into their cabins – Millie and Fifi are “super excited” about their first night! The afternoon flew by and before the children knew it, dinner time was upon them. With a choice of fish fingers or chicken tikka, the children tucked into their tasty meals and many discussed the evening activity to come – Ambush. With the sweet taste of a jam doughnut in their mouths, the children headed to the Ambush activity, led by our leader Amber, with excitement building once again.

As the first day draws to a close in Little Canada, the children are settled and looking forward to a well-deserved night’s sleep ahead of tomorrow’s busy schedule. Best wishes from all here to all of you back in Bermondsey.

Year 6.