On Wednesday 28th June 2023, The Ocean Class set off on their first residential experience with The Bushcraft Company at the Blenheim Palace estate .
The coach delivered everyone to the woods where they were met by Joe, Greg and Dan the camp leaders. The children were shown the camp yurt, their tents, the mobile kitchen and washing up centre and the porta loos!
The fun started straight away. The children learnt all about how to make fire and then set about making their own fires to cook lunch. After lunch everyone used charcoal and camouflage paint to get ready for some predator games in the forest.
After the fun and games, there were snacks and then it was time for team shelter building.
After a long and busy day, it was good to get to the tents for a rest. It was a challenge to be away from home but everyone supported one another and eventually camp fell silent as everyone drifted off to sleep!
On Thursday morning after breakfast, it was time to learn how to do basic first aid. This was very lucky as, later in the day, the class came across a plane crash and all of their skills were put to the test.
During the day, there was also a chance to whittle some sticks and make some survival bracelets. There was pizza for lunch and pasta for tea – and lots of washing up!
In the evening, there was a talent show and everyone took part. There was also the opportunity to watch a salmon being filleted and two lucky children got to eat the eyeballs!! The evening ended with s’mores and a shadow puppet show. There was also a chance to show gratitude for the things that mean the most with some quiet reflection time around the fire. It was a very long and busy day and everyone went to sleep quickly!
On the final morning, after a breakfast of sausages, cereal and fruit, the children learnt how to make traps and then designed their own. There was also a challenge to create a waterproof home for a jammy dodger monster! The children then had to pack up their belongings and clean out their tents before heading back to school happy and exhausted!
Overall. it was a very exciting and challenging few days and the children rose to the occasion brilliantly. They showed resilience and determination, overcoming homesickness and tiredness to make the most of all the opportunities on offer. We are very grateful to Joe, Greg and Dan for leading the camp with such fun and expertise and to Mrs Bell and Mrs Keene who gave their time to help the children enjoy a really valuable experience!