A wet Wednesday hasn't dampened the Year 2's spirits

What a fantastic day we have had today. After a relatively short coach trip, where all the children sat patently, we had a tour of the grounds. "Wow" & "awesome" were two words used throughout by the children as it dawned on them exactly what they had in store over the next three days. Once the tour was out the way they had some free time to explore the grounds themselves. Some went to find dens in bushes, others played football while some were playing 'it' and other similar games. A small group even went with Mrs Klar to fetch some chicken eggs so Mr Bird could choose the biggest one and write his name on it ready for his breakfast in the morning.

Eventually the time came to take the luggage to the rooms but before we knew it there was a fire alarm practice. The children did Springfield Primary proud by coming out quickly and sensibly and were then able to be split into two groups for our first official activity of the residential.

Due to the sheer amount of rain we've had these past few days a pleasurable walk down to Paper Mill Lock was out of the question, instead it was back onto the coach for half the group while the others stayed at the centre for even more fun and games. Once at the Lock we boarded the boat and headed down the river. Everyone was so excited as we squeezed under the first bridge while House Martins were swooping all around us making their nests after travelling from Africa. A couple of girls excitedly exclaimed that they saw a tortoise swimming by the riverbank as others were looking out for crocodiles after spotting a curious warning sign. But probably the best comment, and the comment that sums it all up came from Paige when she said "this is the best time of my life so far because I've never been on a boat before! "

After swapping activities and meeting back at the centre the children had some more free time until dinner was ready. It was like torture though as everyone had worked up a great appetite and the smell of it cooking just made it worse. Thankfully though, before too long the dinner bell rang and it was served. Sausages, mash, yorkshire pud, carrots and broccoli. Plates were almost licked clean!

Finally, it was time for the last activity. The rain had once again put a stop to our plans so a campfire and marshmallows were struck off the plan. Instead we had a boat building challenge and postcard writing session.

Hot chocolate was then handed out for to enjoy before bedtime.