A fantastic day for all the children today on Cairngorm mountain. The sky was blue and the sun shone as the beginners got to grips with their snow plough turns! After a whole day of skiing they had their swim. We are thinking the children will sleep very well tonight!

To inspire the pupils to build on their natural curiosity and ability to problem solve, today was filled with science and engineering challenges.  The pupils learnt about engineering, one of the fastest growing industries in the world before turning their hand to working collaboratively to solve a variety of problems.  The final challenge was to build a marble run that would allow the marble to run for 60 seconds.  The pupils soon realised that their prior knowledge of Forces needed to be applied. Their constructions will be finished and tested on Thursday.

The 60 second marble run.

The jelly cube challenge.

The 60 second marble run.

Keeping a paper clip afloat.

Making a crumple zone.

Can you make a paper clip float?

Chopstick Jelly Challenge

What shape will go through a square, triangular and circular hole?

Building a marble run

Building a marble run

Designing a crumple zone

A fab day skiing in the Cairngorms for all – super snow and conditions so everybody happy – all now soothing aching muscles in the pool ! More pics to come …

Arrived at Abernethy House by noon and unloaded the bus. We explored the grounds and had our packed lunches. Next, ski kit was issued and then off we went to try out on the dry ski slope. In warm sunshine those that had never been on skis before learnt how to side step up the hill, ski downhill and stop, use a button tow and ski with turns.  Next, we had a swim and then unpacked in our rooms. Evening meal was very welcome after all this! The tuck shop did a roaring trade and then we played games. Explore took place in the theatre and soon we will all be ready for bed – well the grown ups are!!

A good nights sleep was had by everyone.