The activities offered just the right level of challenge, and the boys rose to them, starting with the task of pitching their own tents.

The Campfire team were excellent and, within minutes, were able to address the boys by name, providing guidance and encouragement with a great sense of humour. By the end of the first day, our intrepid adventurers had managed to source wood for their fires:

 and help cook their dinner,

which was a delicious chilli.

Roasted marshmallows and a cup of hot chocolate under the big tent brought the day to a perfect end. 

The second day started with a healthy and enjoyable breakfast—we were definitely well-fed!—and saw the boys learning a range of new skills. Wood whittling was undoubtedly the most popular activity, with the boys asking for extra sessions, which were happily provided by our guides.

Camouflage was great fun, and Mr Townend fully embraced the spirit of the activity, along with the children.

Later, in another part of the woods, the boys refined their shelter-building techniques

Later still, Mr Townend, Mrs Beaumont and I were incredibly impressed not only by how skilfully the group gutted freshly delivered mackerel, but also by how bravely some of them volunteered to taste the fish's eyes

They then cooked the mackerel alongside their dinner and, to their surprise, thoroughly enjoyed it. 

On the final day, after taking down the camp,we still had time for more adventures. A rescue scenario put the first aid skills learned in an earlier session to the test, as the boys came to the aid of Mr Townend. It proved to be quite an eventful trip for him—and for two of our guides! The boys applied bandages and splints, wrapped their casualty in blankets, and carried, supported or guided him safely back to the big tent.

Time to go home was approaching, but we still had time to find an idyllic spot for a packed lunch,

...and to explore a wonderful wooded area.

It was a wonderful experience. Our Year 5 learnt a lot and had great fun, enjoying the freedom that space afforded and being creative in their games, be it using wood branches to set up a cricket game or acting a scene from Star Wars,

or playing hide-and-seek in the long grass or observing and collecting insects – safely released!  

My thanks go to the very professional, welcoming and helpful Campfire Team and to Mrs Beaumont, whose care of children and staff was wonderful as ever and Mr Townend, whose knowledge and passion for nature and outdoor activities was inspiring. 

Laura Brill
Head of Middle Prep