These senior students in our school have an important role to play in terms of participation and leadership of all school activities and it is hugely important that they develop a working spirit and leadership skills right from the start. It was with this in mind that they were all taken to the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês for a weekend of outdoor activities specifically designed to break down barriers and build up team spirit whilst nurturing and enhancing individual leadership abilities. Prior to the day of departure the students were divided into 3 tutor groups consisting of a mixture of students from each year group, these were now their teams for this adventure. Each team had to organise their food and camping equipment for the entire weekend and would be awarded team points for their teamwork and success in each activity. These activities ranged from cooking for each other, making their own juggling balls, ultimate frisbee, team games, problem solving tasks and night and day orienteering.
The weekend was a hugely enjoyable affair, culminating in the picnic with parents providing a huge feast. It was clear to see through the interaction of the students and their own self and team evaluations that they were developing a greater understanding of themselves, their peers and their role within the school.
Our objectives were met and a tremendous time was had by all.
A huge thankyou to all the teachers who gave up their weekend, in particular, Mr. Davidson and Mr. Horta, Mr. Hagger and Mr. McEvoy.