During the first week of the academic year, amidst the excitement of their first few days at St John’s, our new Lower Third pupils enjoyed two adventure-filled days at High Ashurst Outdoor Education Centre, Dorking.
Pupils and staff were in high spirits as they experienced a fantastic two days filled with activities such as climbing, high ropes, outdoor team tasks, and a delicious barbecue! The Lower Third induction trip is always a wonderful way to encourage pupils to meet new friends, learn new names and come together as a cohort with team building activities.
Pupil highlights included:
‘I really loved the high ropes and the team-building activities’. — Caroline
‘The leap of faith was really scary but when I got up the ladder, I went for it. I missed the bar completely and had to dangle, but it was still really fun’. — Jess
‘I enjoyed the climbing wall the most because I love being high up! I nearly made it to the top!’ — Spencer
‘Crate stacking was great: it was a great team-building exercise because you had to really trust everyone in your group’. — Zahra
Richard Harvey, Head of Lower School commented: ‘This year’s Lower Third induction trip was a fantastic success. It provided tutors and pupils the opportunity to get to know each other as a year group, start to form new friendships and, with us returning to High Ashurst, learning how quickly they can scale a wall blindfolded! On the first evening, a delicious barbecue was enjoyed on The Quad before 40 pupils tried boarding for the first time, which was a special addition to the two days.
I was delighted to see pupils beginning to make friendships, developing their skills, working as a team, and getting to know the Lower School staff. I am very grateful to Mr Helliwell – Head of Lower Third, Matron and the Lower Third tutors, who were instrumental in facilitating this great adventure.’
