Residential Photos 2026
Visit here to find out what the children have been up to - fun from start to end! Please note that Monday's upload may be slightly later than other days whilst we settle and learn how much signal we have to work with. Watch this space!
Day 1 – We've Arrived!
We've had a brilliant first day here at residential!
The coach journey went very smoothly, with plenty of songs being sung and perhaps a few too many cheeky sweets being eaten (apologies to the coach company!).
On arrival came the first big challenge: carrying everyone's luggage around 100 metres to the campsite. After what felt like an eternity, we finally made it! Along the way there were a few casualties in the form of lost pillows, sunglasses and water bottles—but don't worry, our staff managed to rescue every last one.
After a quick bite to eat, our camp leader, Sam, gave everyone a tour of the site. The children were especially excited to find out who they'd be sharing their tents with—see the attached photos!
The activity groups then headed off for their first adventures, taking part in shelter building, bushcraft, low ropes and buggy building. Everyone threw themselves into the activities and had a fantastic time.
One of the highlights of the day was Connor and the missing marshmallow! The children had just one job: hold onto their marshmallow until it was their turn to toast it over the campfire. Connor couldn't resist licking off a bit of dust that had settled on his marshmallow… and after that, temptation got the better of him and the whole thing disappeared! Thankfully, Sam took pity on him and kindly gave him a second chance.
Over at the low ropes course, Scarlett set the benchmark for the week by completing the course in an impressive 50 seconds. She now has everyone chasing her time -including the ever-competitive Mr Nelson, who has arrived determined to claim victory in at least one challenge this week!
We've now settled in for the evening after enjoying hearty plates of chilli con carne with side salad, followed by marble cake for dessert. Only a couple of children opted for an alternative meal, but they really did give the chilli a go first, and we were very proud of them for trying something new.
Now for the interesting part of the evening... A few children have confidently informed us that they're "really tired" and will be "going straight to sleep". We're not falling for that one this year - oh no! The adults will be keeping our fingers crossed that everyone settles quickly so we can recharge our batteries before another action-packed day tomorrow.
It's been a fantastic first day, full of smiles, laughter and new experiences. We can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!
Day 2 - Sleepyheads!
What another fantastic day we’ve had! The morning got off to a slightly earlier start than planned for a handful of children, who decided that 3:45am was the perfect time to greet the day (or the birds, we’re not entirely sure). Thankfully, they were gently reminded that the rest of the world was still asleep and managed to squeeze in a couple more hours before breakfast!
Our morning activities saw Groups 1 and 2 embracing their inner survival experts by building shelters using nothing but natural resources, rope and a tarp. There were some incredibly creative designs - some looked wonderfully cosy, while others may have been better suited to woodland squirrels! The competitive spirit continued as each team attempted to ‘sell’ their masterpiece to the rest of the group. Safe to say, we have a few future estate agents in our midst! Be sure to check out the shelter photos.
By lunchtime, everyone had worked up quite an appetite. The impressively large cheese baguettes disappeared quickly, along with crisps, KitKats and apples. There were very few leftovers - always a good sign!
Throughout the day, every group took aim at archery, taking part in the ever-popular Pizza Game before battling it out in the championships. Congratulations to our winners! Group 1: 1st Ronnie, 2nd Cali, 3rd Miss Crowdy. Group 2: 1st Mr Nelson, 2nd Oliver, 3rd Finley. Group 3: 1st Connor, 2nd Alfie Mahoney, 3rd Bailey. Group 4: 1st Benn, 2nd Miss West, 3rd Aurora. There were some impressive shots… and a few arrows that clearly had other plans!
Everyone also tackled the high ropes today, and we couldn’t be prouder. Children challenged themselves, climbed higher than they thought they could, faced their fears and cheered each other on every step of the way. It was wonderful to see so much determination, resilience and encouragement.
As the evening approaches, we’re very much looking forward to another round of Habeeb’s legendary ghost stories. His dramatic storytelling had everyone laughing almost as much as it had them pretending not to be scared! Lucas gave him a serious run for his money with fantastic pacing and storytelling that kept everyone hanging on every word.
We’ll be finishing the evening with songs around the campfire and a talent show. Earlier, everyone had a go at lighting a fire using flint and steel before enjoying toasted marshmallows together around the campfire - plenty of smiles, sticky fingers and great memories were made.
After such an action-packed day, we’re all looking forward to a well-earned pasta dinner this evening before another fun-filled night. Judging by today’s adventures, we suspect there will be some very sleepy children tonight… although perhaps not quite as sleepy as they were at 3:45 this morning!
Day 3 – Home Time!
Our final day at camp got off to a brilliant start. We were so impressed with the children's listening and organisation this morning. They had packed their bags, tidied their tents and left out everything they needed for the day, as all luggage had to be stored before we left camp. There were a few stray Crocs and trainers left behind (no names... Benn!), but we're pleased to report that everything made it safely back to school!
After another filling breakfast, we headed off for our final two activity sessions. Across the four groups, the children took part in Buggy Building, Nightline, Tracking and Signs, and Camouflage and Concealment. Although everyone was definitely feeling a little more tired after a couple of exciting nights away from home, the children gave every activity 100% effort. We couldn't have asked for any more from them, and we are incredibly proud of how they approached each challenge.
A special mention must go to our camp leader, Sam, who was fantastic throughout the week. He made a point of telling us how polite, respectful and well-mannered our children had been, and commented that their enthusiasm and participation had been far greater than that of many other school groups he has worked with. We were incredibly proud to hear such lovely feedback.
The journey home was the perfect way to round off the trip. The children happily sang the songs Sam had taught them for much of the coach ride back. If you don't believe us, just ask your child whether they met any big white polar bears... we're sure they'll know exactly what you mean!
It has been an absolute pleasure for us to spend the last three days with your children. They have represented the school brilliantly, challenged themselves, supported one another and created memories that we hope will last a lifetime.
Here's to another fantastic two days back at Felmore with the rest of the Year 6 team!
