Wake-up time on Day 4 at Castle Toward was a slightly quieter affair as nearly all dorms were still asleep at 7.30am! After the usual breakfast and lunch-making routine, we went off to our boot rooms to get kitted up for the morning’s activities.  As this would be our last full day of activities, we were keen to make the most of it. Those of us who had yet to do the last few activities on the programme had heard so many amazing stories from the others, and we were looking forward to experiencing them for ourselves.

Teams 1 and 7 battled against the wind in their efforts to hit the target in the archery range whilst Teams 2 and 8 braved the elements during their hillwalk. “The weather brought out the best in everyone and despite the rain everyone worked together to achieve success in reaching the summit,” commented Miss Leitch. Mrs Ratcliffe accompanied Team 8 in their trek to the top. “Despite the difficult weather conditions, the children rose to the challenge and the team were determined to reach the peak.”

This morning, it was the turn of Teams 3 and 9 to test their teamworking and problem-solving abilities in the Team Challenges, and Teams 4 and 10 took the plunge with the Gorgewalk. Teams 5 and 11 applied their map-reading skills to their Orienteering challenge and Team 6 finally tackled the High Ropes.

Mrs Lockett was nervous but excited about doing the Gorgewalk with Team 10 today. “I had no need to be nervous as the children encouraged me to face my fears. I was so impressed at the way in which they worked together as a team and adopted such a positive attitude towards reaching their goal.”

Mr Rodgers has also been impressed by the way in which the teams have been working together to support and motivate each other in all the activities. Miss Hall commented, “The children have risen to the challenges they have faced and behaved really well.” Miss McColgan said, “It has been lovely to see the children interacting with each other and having fun outside the school setting. Everyone is having a ball!”

Mrs Sutherland has spent a lot of time working with a variety of groups this week. “As this has been my first time at Castle Toward, I have been thrilled to see how well the children have been working together. I have thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the activities with the P7 pupils and helping them around the Castle. The girls, in particular, have certainly risen to the challenge of dorm inspections!” Mrs Monie said, “It is so nice to see the children having so much fun.”

After lunch, the teams prepared for their final outdoor activities of the week and enjoyed some relaxation time in their dorms or playing outside on the lawn. Dinner consisted of delicious chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce and rice followed by a choice of vanilla, strawberry or mint choc chip ice-cream. After cleaning the dining rooms and setting up for supper, it was time to get ready for the disco! The children had a fantastic time and by supper time, we were all ready for some much-needed sleep!