Day Two at Rhos Y Gwaliau.  Welcome to our Year 6 residential blog! Today was our first full day of our exciting adventure at Rhos Y Gwaliau, and it was packed with thrilling activities, delicious food, and fun evening entertainment.

Morning Adventures

Our day began with the children splitting into different groups, each embarking on their own unique adventure:

• Mountain Hike: One group set off to conquer the nearby mountain. The hike was challenging but rewarding, with stunning views at the summit. The children learned about the local flora and fauna, and everyone felt a great sense of achievement upon reaching the top.

• Canoeing on Bala Lake: Another group took to the waters of Bala Lake. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, the children paddled their canoes, learning teamwork and coordination. The serene beauty of the lake made the experience unforgettable.

• Slate Mine Exploration: The third and fourth groups ventured underground into a historic slate mine. Equipped with helmets and torches, they explored the dark tunnels and learned about the history of slate mining in the area. The children were fascinated by the stories of miners and the impressive structures within the mine.

After our day full of activities, everyone was ready for a hearty meal of tomato soup, chicken curry and vegetable curry, and finished off, we sponge cake.  

The day concluded with an evening activity that brought out everyone's creativity: LEGO building! The children worked in teams to create imaginative structures and designs. It was a wonderful way to unwind and bond after a day of adventure.

 

 

Day Two at Rhos Y Gwaliau: More Adventures Await!

Welcome back to our Year 6 residential blog! Day two at Rhos Y Gwaliau was filled with even more excitement and exploration. Our children continued to embrace the spirit of adventure with a variety of activities that challenged and thrilled them.

 

Morning and Afternoon Activities

Once again, the children were divided into groups, each embarking on a different adventure:

• Mountain Hike: Two groups set off for another mountain hike, exploring new trails and enjoying the breathtaking views. The children's confidence and stamina were evident as they tackled the challenging terrain, and they were rewarded with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment. There was even a funny moment when one of the teachers (who will remain nameless) had a little slip on the way down the mountain, providing everyone with a good laugh!
• Slate Mine Exploration: Another group returned to the slate mine for their exploration. They delved into the tunnels, learning more about the history and techniques of slate mining.
• Climbing the Via Ferrata: The fourth group took on the thrilling challenge of climbing the Via Ferrata. Equipped with harnesses and safety gear, the children navigated the iron paths and ladders fixed to the rock face. It was an exhilarating experience that tested their courage and teamwork, and everyone felt a great sense of achievement upon completing the climb.

We came back to another delicious Homemade Dinner of Pasta Bolognese, and for dessert, we had a delightful cheesecake, which was the perfect sweet treat to end our meal.

The day concluded with an evening activity that combined fun and navigation skills: orienteering! The children worked in teams to find their way around the grounds using maps and compasses and torches! It was a great way to develop their problem-solving skills and teamwork, and everyone had a fantastic time.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey at Rhos Y Gwaliau. Tomorrow promises even more excitement and learning opportunities!

 

 

Day Three at Rhos Y Gwaliau: Adventures Continue!

Welcome back to our Year 6 residential blog! Day three at Rhos Y Gwaliau was another action-packed day filled with exciting activities and memorable experiences. All of the children continued to embrace the spirit of adventure with enthusiasm and energy.

Morning and Afternoon Activities

Today, the children were divided into groups for their adventures of Via Ferrata Climbing, Mountain Hike and Slate Mine Exploration

On our return, the children had showers, prepared for room inspections and had delicious homemade Roast, with all the timings, including potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and a variety of vegetables; finished off with a sticky toffee pudding for dessert!  

Evening Activity: Movie Night

The day concluded with a relaxing evening activity: watching a film together in the common room. The children snuggled under their duvets, enjoying the cozy atmosphere and the chance to unwind after a busy day. It was a wonderful way to end the day, and everyone felt relaxed and happy.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, all the groups will finish off their round of activities, preparing for Friday's exciting hill trek. 

The weather has been glorious, making Wales even more fun and enjoyable for the children. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey at Rhos Y Gwaliau. Tomorrow promises even more excitement and learning opportunities!

 

Day Four at Rhos Y Gwaliau: Adventures

 Welcome back to our Year 6 residential blog! Day four at Rhos Y Gwaliau was filled with sunshine and smiles as our children continued their exciting adventures. The glorious weather made every activity even more enjoyable.

 Morning and Afternoon Activities

 Today, the children were divided into groups for their adventures:

• Canoeing on Bala Lake and Open Fire Cooking: Two groups took to the waters of Bala Lake for a canoeing adventure. Under the guidance of their instructors, the children paddled their canoes, learning teamwork and coordination. After their time on the lake, they gathered around an open fire to cook marshmallows.  The groups then went Gorge Walking: navigating through rocky river. It was a thrilling experience that tested their balance and bravery, and everyone had a fantastic time getting soaking wet and cold!
• Slate Mine Exploration: Another group finished their exploration of the historic slate mine. And the final group Climbed the Via Ferrata and ‘Wall’! 

 All of the activities were great fun and an exhilarating experience that tested the children’s courage and teamwork, and everyone felt a great sense of achievement.

 After a day full of activities, everyone was ready for another hearty meal. And tonight we had sausages and mash, followed by apple crumble.

Evening Activity: Learning and Fun

The day concluded with an evening activity that combined learning and fun. The children were split into three different activity groups:

• Sustainability: One group learned about sustainability, exploring ways to protect our environment and live more eco-friendly lives.
• Adaptation: Another group focused on adaptation, discovering how animals and plants adjust to their environments to survive and thrive.
• Rocket Making: The final group had a blast making rockets! They designed and built their own rockets, learning about the principles of flight and propulsion.

 It was a wonderful way to end the day, with everyone engaged and excited about their new knowledge.

 Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, all the groups will finish off their round of activities, preparing for Friday's exciting Hill Trek, before packing their bags and getting ready to leave on Saturday morning.

Tomorrow promises even more excitement and learning opportunities!

 

Final Day at Rhos Y Gwaliau: A Memorable Conclusion

Welcome back to our Year 6 residential blog! Our final day at Rhos Y Gwaliau was filled with mixed emotions as we prepared to wrap up our adventure together. The highlight of the day was the much-anticipated Hill Trek.

The children set off late morning for the hill trek, eager to conquer the final challenge of their residential trip. The weather continued to be glorious, providing perfect conditions for the trek. All of the children demonstrated determination and teamwork as they navigated the trails and climbed the hills.   

Our final dinner together was pizza and chocolate cake - which everyone enjoyed.  

We spent the evening packing and preparing for home - and also squeezed in the first half of the England game!

It's been a great week, with lots of adventure and memories - and now, everyone is looking forward to a final night's sleep and to seeing their family tomorrow.