Fairplay House

On the Monday 17th November 2014 Year 5 ventured on an excursion that would change their lives forever!

The long awaited bus journey buzzed with excitement as we all chatted about what the next 3 days be like. Upon arrival we pulled our suitcases up the hill to the house and were greeted by our new activity leaders (Jack and Scott).

After some introductions from the leaders and some excellent advice, we got into our new groups and embarked on our first activity. Unaffected by the weather the children courageously walked on high ropes, swung from 70% to 100% on the big swing, adventured underground through dark narrow caves and trekked in the woodlands. Showing great support and teamwork, each and every child pushed themselves to their limits and expressed their feelings of achievement and success.

Anxiety and excitement built as children awaited their instructions to make their own beds with clean bed linen and to unpack their suitcases. After some great teamwork all the beds were made and we were out of the door on our first competition...each group against the other on the night walk! All 3 groups started at the same place, but at different times. We were all filled with excitement and fear, as it was the first time many of us had ever walked in the dark! It was a fantastic victory for group 2, who caught up with group 1 close to the finish line.

During the following days the children took turns in preparing, cleaning and setting up for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The delightful cooks fed us with delicious food and deserts, which we were all very thankful for.

We were all dazzled on the final night by the confident and talents shown by all children during a pyjama parade. After giving the children only an hour to prepare and choreograph a small performance, the judges - James, Amy, Sapna, Maryjane and Dean - were gobsmacked by the results. They originality of the performances and the support given by the audience was amazing. It was an evening to remember!
Upon leaving Fair play house, the children talked about their achievements, new friendships and feelings of independence. The children are overjoyed with the courage and bravery they both experienced and witnessed, along with the array of skills that they have taken home with them.

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