BBCET children brave the outdoors on action-packed school trip

Kayaking, caving, orienteering, and even cold-water swimming were on the agenda when intrepid pupils from a BBCET school visited High Borrans for a week of outdoor adventures.

The 30 children from Years 5 and 6 at St Columba’s Catholic Primary in Wallsend also took part in hillwalking, rope courses, and ghyll scrambling, while evening activities included games, a quiz, a movie night, and a campfire, complete with toasted marshmallows.

“Highlights were kayaking, caving, and ghyll scrambling,” said Headteacher Rachel Steinmetz, who accompanied the group, along with Deputy Headteacher and Year 6 Teacher Natasha Maddison, Year 5 Teacher Lucy Barnett, and Year 2 Teacher Mollie Wilson.

“Some pupils were nervous about these activities, and, when they achieved them, they felt a great sense of pride in overcoming a fear or completing something new,” she continued.

“Staff always enjoy watching the children thrive, grow in resilience, and develop independently throughout the week. It is a real privilege to share this with the children, and to get to know them and build relationships outside of the classroom.”

The trip has become a regular fixture in the school calendar.

“St Columba’s have been visiting High Borrans for years,” added Mrs Steinmetz. “It’s an annual tradition and rite of passage.

“Trips like this are often the highlight of the year for most of our children. They gain so much more that the experiences of the activities – they develop self-confidence, and grow in self-esteem and independence.

“They also come away knowing how to make a bed, set a table, and help their families around the house.

“Most importantly, they make memories and forge new relationships with their peers and staff that last for the remainder of their time in High Borrans and beyond.”