Year 8 Adventure Quest

The brief was simple: We were asked to devise a week of activity for Year 8 which would have broad appeal, include a measure of relaxation, retail therapy, physical challenge and cultural improvement and would also be free (or very nearly!). As a result, twelve children and their teachers set out to explore the most important elements of the locality; the beach, the Cathedral and City of Salisbury and the New Forest.

Actually, day one was spent helping the ‘Animals' group with their project; this was our ‘putting something back into the community' day. Tuesday saw us on Studland Beach. We chose the least crowded and positively low tech stretch of sand, with just one small café serving mugs of hot tea and coffee and excellent ice creams. Beach games, sand castles and a swim were followed by a cliff walk to the Old Harry Rocks.

The next day was our Salisbury Day. We climbed the Cathedral tower in the morning, and were treated to stunning views from the top. It is worth the 300+ steps just to see the medieval woodwork supporting the roof. This excitement was followed by an extended shopping trip into town. We then headed for Old Sarum, just North of Salisbury, to scramble on the banks and generally to relax or explore depending on mood.

The final two days of the week included a visit to a smallholding and to the New Forest Centre and Museum. Most of us also had the energy to cycle to Fritham and back on the final morning before a barbecue lunch. These last two days were linked by an overnight camp at Mr and Mrs Cochands' home, with bivouacs, wide games and a really impressive thunderstorm.

The success of the week bore testament to the fact that you don't have to spend much or go far to have a really good time!

C Carver
R Harvey
R Thackray