On Monday 3rd May sixty Third Form pupils and five members of staff left school to spend five days in Maes-y-fron, Abercraf, which is in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
After making the journey across Wales the pupils immediately got stuck into the activities planned for them which tested their ability to work as a team as well as being designed to develop their communication skills. This was then followed in the evening by a night walk to the summit of Cribarth, which is known famously as the ‘sleeping giant’.
Gorge walking and climbing, caving and a waterfall walk, and a day by the lake enjoying canoeing, kayaking and raft building challenged each individual in different ways over the next three days. During each evening the pupils also were active by creating a nation of their own, as well as creating a 10 minute film describing their experiences. A very busy but exciting time indeed.
Accommodation was split between the old converted farm building for two nights, while the other two nights the pupils camped in the field adjoining the farm.
While we were at Maes-y-fron each pupil also looked to complete stage 1 of the John Muir award. This involves the four areas of Discover, Explore, Conserve and Share to encourage awareness and responsibility for our natural environment. As a group King’s helped extend a pond for wildlife to live and grow, created a path and build some woodland benches.
We were very lucky to have dry weather for the majority of the time and this helped to ensure fun was had by all who attended.
Mr N J Stewart
Head of 3rd Form