Each year some children are taken on residential trips. We feel this broadens their outlook and leads them towards greater independence. They experience a range of hands-on activities linked to the curriculum. Their social skills are developed by enabling them to mix and work alongside people from other parts of the country.
In Year 6 pupils have visited The Pioneer Centre in Worcestershire for a week long residential visit which offers the opportunity to take part in a wide range of challenging and rewarding experiences.
In Year 4, children have their first experience of a school residential visit. The venue is Grendon Hall, a centre belonging to Northamptonshire County Council. The hall is a Queen Anne house standing in 17 acres of ground to the north of the village of Grendon.
Year 4 children spend three days and two nights here in the company of children from other small rural schools. For many this is the first experience away from family, and as such is a vital preparatory trip for later residential visits.
The pupils benefit enormously. A feeling of mutual support and a real sense of team spirit develops. Activities are planned by teachers and trained Grendon Hall staff, using the grounds and facilities wherever possible.
During free time the children have the grounds at their disposal (including tennis courts). Many new friendships with pupils from other schools are established and social skills are developed.