Written by: Anay 8M and Neev 8M

On the 4th of July we were all filled to the brim with excitement and for good reason as this was the starting of the Welsh trip. A trip with so many activities that we could not possibly list them all within this tiny article. However, we have certainly tried our best to give you a gist on the trip and hope you enjoy.

My (Anay) favourite day: On the pleasant(rainy) Monday, we embarked on our endeavour to Wales our bags filled to the brim with snacks, which would not last a single day. On the ride to our campsite, we stopped at services to refuel the minibus and ourselves. When we finally reached our campsite in the afternoon just to take out our canoe bivouac stuff and head straight to canoeing. At canoeing the instructors were very insightful and knowledgeable in their field and helped us fully enjoy our trip through the rapids to our campsite situated a mile away. We then decided to set up camp on the banks of the beautiful river Wye. All of us were all extremely proud of our camp and proceeded to rest for for quite some time before dinner was served. It was a nice and warm meal of pasta(gnocchi) and sauce. Quite frankly it was delicious. We then winded up with some snacks and cards before eventually hitting the hay.

My (Neev) favourite day: Waking up on a scorching Thursday, with the sun already blazing down on our skin, we were buzzing with anticipation for what was meant to be a picturesque climb up Pen y Fan—the highest peak in Wales. The 24-kilometre challenge had us excited and ready, but with temperatures soaring to a sweltering 36°C, safety came first. Instead, we were guided on a shorter, yet equally beautiful hike to Symonds Yat. Our journey began at Biblin’s Bridge, a charming suspension bridge built in 1957. After generously applying sunscreen and even pouring water into our sunhats for relief, we crossed the River Wye and began our trek. Mr. Solewijn kept us moving with his signature call, “Close the gaps!” Along the way, we skipped stones across the river, turning it into a light-hearted competition. As we entered the forest, thick with lush greenery, the trail steepened, and our legs burned—but the reward was worth it. At the top, we stumbled upon a delightful café nestled in a clearing, serving some of the best gelato we’d ever tasted flavours like bubble gum, cookies and cream, and salted caramel. With Jason, our group leader, generously footing the bill, it tasted even sweeter. After a well-earned break, we continued to a viewpoint that offered a postcard-perfect panorama of the Welsh countryside. The descent led us to a small bay, where we crossed the river once more—this time by a passenger canoe pulled by a ferryman. The day ended with tired legs, sun-glazed faces, and a shared sense of awe at the beauty we’d experienced. It was a day of laughter, challenge, and unforgettable views. In conclusion the Wales trip was filled with laughter, unforgettable views and experiences straight from a movie, including the wackiest stuff every day. It was truly a splendid and worthy way to spend Activities week. Thanks to the teachers and 6th formers (Ollie and Lucas) for helping us throughout our eventful week as without their help we would not even be able to make it to Wales let alone participate in the plentiful activities. These teachers were: Mr Solewijn, Mr Blunt, Mr Marshall, Miss Vincent.

THANK YOU FOR READING! HOPE YOU TAKE THS TRIP WHEN IT’S YOUR TURN Yr7s!