Snowdon 2022

Snowdon 2022

Final Day: Friday 25th March

A perfect end to an amazing week.

The time had come for us to pack up and go. Luckily, we had one spectacular place to visit first. Cwm Idwal was a sight to behold as we climbed the stones paths to a magnificent lake surrounded by a backdrop of dramatic mountains. Here we gazed (and posed), taking in the breathtaking views. Our guides, Elsie and Georgia told us all about the legend of a prince and some of the interesting geographical features.

On return to the centre, we said our final goodbyes to our lovely instructors and headed home. We truly had had the most special time, taking in the lovely scenery and getting to know our wonderful year 7s. I am sure they have made memories they will cherish forever. We are so proud of each and every one of you.

Cwm Idwal

Day three: Thursday 24th March

Our day started with a plentiful breakfast and coach trip to Aber Falls. The walk up through the V-shaped valley, provided great challenge and spectacular panoramic views for the children. Taking one and a half hours to reach the foot of the falls, it was great to see the children supporting each other all the way, demonstrating the values of resilience and responsibility we promote. As you can see from the images, the views were worth the anticipated wait and we enjoyed a fantastic lunch before making our descent. At the bottom, pupils discovered new wildlife and, helped by the centre staff, were able to identify a rather unique looking insect they stumbled across.

After reaching the coach, we travelled to Llandudno to allow our legs to recuperate and enjoy exploring the pier there (the largest pier in Wales). Here, there was time for beach football, lots of digging and another chance to develop their skimming skills. At the pier, pupils enjoyed spending money in the arcades, at the food stalls, in the souvenir stands or on local crafts.

Once we had finished dinner, we spent time singing around the campsite and toasting marshmallows on the open fire whilst reminiscing about our adventures from the last days. The night ended with an impromptu song from Mr Cotton that critics have described as ‘sub-standard’ which recounted the trip and all that at happened.

Following a tidy of rooms and dorm inspections, the children enjoyed their last evening in the centre before settling down for the night.

Again their attitudes and behaviour have been exemplary and so many lovely comments have been given to staff from the general public/ shop owners about their manners and behaviour. We are very proud of all they have achieved and how they have conducted themselves. Well done to you all!

Evening free time

Campfire

Llandudno

Aber Falls

Morning activities

Day Two: Wednesday 23rd March

Mrs Eaton’s birthday

What a glorious day we have had in the golden sunshine. We started the day with a delicious breakfast followed by a huge sing along to happy birthday for Mrs Eaton.

Our coach journey today took us through the picturesque Snowdonia National Park to our seaside destination of Criccieth Beach. Here the children loved playing and exploring the beach, including burying Mr Cotton in the sand. At the opposite end of the beach, we settled for our picnic lunch, followed by stone skimming and paddling in the sea. This was finished with a visit to the shops to buy much needed ice lollies.

On return to the centre, we got kitted out with wellies and waterproofs so that we could explore the river and pond to compare the types of creatures which live there. Down by the river, the children enjoyed wading in the water with their nets. We also discovered that we have some talented stone throwers through a range of competitions. In the pond, we found a cute frog protecting her spawn. Some of the children were also really excited to see a Chinook circle overhead as they had been hoping to spot some RAF action.

On the menu tonight was burger and chips with chocolate fudge cake for dessert. This was a huge hit!

Our evening activities involved some team challenges. This included a hoop challenge, water tower and marble run. Whilst some children chilled in their bedrooms or in the games room, others were having their hair plaited.

A great day all round!

Pamper time

Team challenges

Dinner time

Pond dipping

River splashing

Criccieth Beach

Morning

Breakfast time

Day One - Tuesday 22nd March

We have had an amazing first day in Snowdon. The coach journey down was an enjoyable experience with the breathtaking views as we entered Wales. When we arrived, the children settled in their rooms and made their own beds!

Our first excursion out involved a walk into Betws-y-Coed where children learned about the past, present and future of the area. It was really interesting to learn about the evolution of the village.

On return to the centre, we had a delicious curry followed by cheesecake. As it got dark, the children loved running around the orienteering course. The children are now settling into their rooms after some free time ready for a fun day tomorrow.

Olivia, Karolina and Mia

Today we really enjoyed going into Betws-y-Coed because it gave us chance to spend our money and we got to learn more about the area. Orienteering was fun to try and find the different locations. We also really liked the food.