P5-7 had a wonderful time this week as part of an outdoor learning opportunity. The children set off bright and early on Monday morning for a residential excursion to the Stronord Outdoor Education Centre in Kirroughtree Forest. The experience helped to foster their problem solving skills and develop their abilities in the four capacities of the Curriculum for Excellence: Successful Learners, Confident Individuals, Responsible Citizens & Effective Contributors
After a quick snack upon arrival we got kitted out by Ian and Mike, our instructors, and headed for the hills. We completed a 6 mile trek along the top of Larg Hill; respecting the country code as we went. There were beautiful views to be seen along the estuary. The children were upbeat and approached the challenge with gusto. We returned on a circuitous route via Garrochar Wildlife Ponds. There were many fallen trees on the pathway as a result of the recent weather. The children had to problem solve to identify and select safe routes through the obstacles. We completed our walk at the churchyard where we had a well-earned breather.
Upon our return, Carol had prepared a delicious hot meal for us all. There was a mountain of food for everyone and we all relaxed with full stomachs. Everyone was weary after their physical efforts and all were pretty much fast asleep by 11 p.m. – a first!
The next day the boys were first to rise and enjoy breakfast. The sleepy girls followed a while after. We all went for a quick stroll up to the play park at Kirroughtree visitor’s centre before Ed & Robbie arrived to kit us out for our first activity of the day; mountain biking. We progressed through a range of the forest bike trails of differing challenge. Each person had to strategise to select speed and direction going downhill. We also had to renegotiate our route when we encountered blocked paths. Everyone showed determination and grit, testing their capabilities to attempt new challenges.
After lunch back at the centre, we set off again for our orienteering adventure. The children were split into pairs. They were required to apply their map reading skills to locate control points in the woodlands. Once they had this competency under their belt, the children were split into teams to complete a speed challenge using electronic dibbers to record the fastest route time. Our clear winners were Rowan and Rhian who recorded 7 control station stops in an impressive 9.46 minutes. Sportsmanship was evident throughout as the children took care of each other, even when this impacted on time scores for the competition.
After all our exertion and activities it was then time to return to the centre and ready ourselves for the short journey home.
Everyone demonstrated strong ‘soft skills’ during our trip. They organised themselves and made decisions seamlessly & harmoniously as a team without adult intervention. Special recognition for ‘Team Spirit Stars’ was given to 2 boys and 2 girls: Innes & Lee and Katie & Mia who went beyond even that in their kindness and consideration towards every member of the team. Well done all!
Many thanks go to Larraine and Mr. Harbottle for their kind assistance on our trip.
#Succesful Learners/Confident Individuals/Responsible Citizens/Effectice Contributors
