Year 4 Outdoor Education Adventure

The location for the Year 4 O.D.E. this year was the KICS Stables on the banks of the River Nile. For many this would be the first time camping, being away from home or simply having to share their living space with others.

The day began in the usual fashion with the students collecting their gear from the O.D.E. Store Room, returning to their class to repack all of the items from home plus their group's camping gear.

At 1:20 p.m. we assembled outside the back gate ready to board the buses for the short ride to the stables. On arrival we had a quick tour of the facilities before resting in the shade for a well deserved bite to eat.

Before long the students were busy assembling their tents in groups and then assisting others who required an extra set of hands. From here we made our way to the gardens for some team building activities and a close up view of the Nile. The evening meal was quickly prepared as the students had some time to relax and enjoy each other's company. Most settled quickly and had a good night's rest with the odd tent group amusing themselves into the early hours of the morning!

Breakfast was well received by most before the long process of packing up camp begun. What I was most impressed with was how a number of students when organized themselves, set about assisting other children without being asked. Initiative goes a long way on trips such as these.

When the bus arrived back at school it would be fair to say that most students had a great time, however they were eager to reacquaint themselves with the air conditioning in their classes and the canteen lunch waiting for them.

Isaac Russell

Outdoor Education Coordinator