6D finished their residential this morning by welcoming the rain as we got ready for our final session of activities. On the agenda: Mr Hemming and Group 1 were off caving and Mrs Dobkin and Groups 2 and 3 were going to try their hand at the via ferrata course.
Group 1 caving
This morning, Group 1 ventured underground to explore the winding passages of Tom Taylor’s Cave. As they navigated the twists and turns, the children learned about the infamous highwayman Tom Taylor, who—according to legend—once used the cave as a hiding place to evade capture.
The next challenge was Cat Crawl Cave, a tight and narrow passage that had to be explored without Mr. Hemming (sadly, he didn’t quite fit!). Fortunately, Noah stepped up and bravely led the way. The rest of the group followed with determination, supporting one another brilliantly. Every child completed the crawl—a real achievement!
The final stop was Eggland’s Cave, where the group learned about the 350-million-year-old bedrock beneath their feet, discovered ancient fossils, and experimented with how darkness affects their vision. It was a fascinating and memorable experience for all.
Each child showed fantastic courage and teamwork, overcoming their fears and encouraging one another throughout. A special mention goes to Aashif, who was more than nervous during last year’s caving in Year 5—but today, he was confidently leading the way and supporting others with real maturity and kindness
Via Ferrata – Groups 2 and 3.
Via ferrata is challenging: metal studs which are bolted into the rocks on the gorge support your weight as you ‘spiderman’ yourself across, high above the water. Children (and adults) are connected by two ropes and are entirely responsible for their own carabiners which they use to secure themself to the course rope. To add to the challenge, high beams and ladders stretch the width of the gorge challenging anyone who might be the slightest bit afraid of heights.
Via ferrata in the rain is a completely different level of challenge, and groups 2 and 3 brought their A Game this morning, making it look like child’s play. Despite the slippery rocks and waterfalls streaming down the limestone, they took it all in stride and supported Mrs Dobkin as she screamed her way around the course, setting an excellent example. Thank you to Jesse and to Alice F who calmed her quaking nerves and gave her lots of encouragement the whole way round.
Special shout out to Ayla who led the way without looking back; to Yaseen who managed to spiderman his way across the gorge without his shoelaces tied; to Arjan who was kind and encouraging to his group constantly and to Alice M and Jersey who didn’t bat an eyelid (even when Mrs Dobkin’s screams got REALLY loud)
Here is a link to a folder with photos from today. (Group 1 has photos currently on a camera at How Stean with 6J so please bear with us as we try and get everything uploaded.)
Mr Hemming, Mrs duPreez, Mrs Midgeley and I have had the most wonderful time this week on our residential. 6D have been a brilliant group to take away: kind, positive and so encouraging to each other. They really have brought the Farfield spirit with them and I am really proud of every single child. Hopefully all possessions have made it home, the washing isn’t too stinky and everyone has a great night’s sleep. See you all bright and early tomorrow!
