CHARTERHOUSE RESIDENTIAL 2008

Year 10 Charterhouse Residential 1st to 3rd December

Fifteen year 10 students had a fantastic time at Charterhouse at the beginning of this month. We spent our first day in Weston-super-Mare walking along the promenade; having a fish and chips lunch; looking at the remains of the burnt-out pier; and finishing with 10-pin bowling.

At the end of the day, we made our way up to Charterhouse, high on the Mendip Hills between Bristol and Wells. After setting up, we had dinner followed by a night walk with torches around the Nature Reserve. It was a beautiful, cold, clear night, with the stars shining brightly.

On our second day, we went hill-walking on the Mendips in the snow, with everyone wrapped up warmly. We walked to the highest point on the Mendips, and then down to Longwood, Black Rock and back along Velvet Bottom, looking at the disused mine workings from a time long ago.

In the afternoon, students and staff went caving at Burrington Combe. The caves were only discovered in 1946 and provided a challenge for all. In our two hours underground, staff and students alike overcame their fears and went on to enjoy a fantastic experience.

Afterwards, the centre staff cooked a fantastic roast chicken dinner with all the trimmings. Students then spent time playing board games in the common room, with lots of time relaxing and socialising.

On our third day, students were split into four groups and went orienteering and shelter building. It was a brilliantly clear, sunny, icy day. All groups completed the circuit. The shelter building was very popular and the students worked very well together.

A fantastic time was had by all!

Enjoying Fish and chips!

Taking in the sea air at Weston!

Treking across the Mendips - and it was even snowing!

Getting kitted out for caving!

Braving the cave!

Making a shelter