Year 5 Take to the Water!
We kicked off our adventure at Thames Young Mariners with high spirits and even higher energy! The excitement bubbled over as the children unpacked in their bell tents—carefully rolling out mats, fluffing up sleeping bags, and claiming their corners like seasoned campers.
No time was wasted as we jumped straight into the action. Dressed in wetsuits and wide smiles, the children launched into a splash-filled afternoon of canoeing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. The lake echoed with laughter as paddles splashed, boats wobbled, and brave jumpers flew off the dock with glee. It was muddy, it was magical—it was a memory in the making. After drying off, we filled up on a delicious dinner of chicken fajitas, followed by gooey brownies and ice cream (a combination that got a five-star review from everyone!). The evening brought out our inner engineers with the legendary Egg Protector Challenge—lots of laughter, cheering, and suspense as each team attempted to keep their eggs safe from doom. The night ended with a cozy campfire under the stars, and finally, one by one, sleepy heads found their pillows.
Day Two: Pancakes, Paddleboards, and Projects
The next morning, we woke to the comforting scent of a full English breakfast—plus plenty of yogurt and fruit. Fuelled and fired up, the children headed back to the water. Though the clouds tried to rain on our parade, they were no match for our enthusiasm. More canoeing and paddle boarding followed, with children growing bolder and more confident with every splash. After a lunch of hand-picked baguettes (complete with crisps, fruit, and shortbread), the sun finally made a grand appearance, bringing with it even more watery fun. By the afternoon, everyone was fully soaked, thoroughly happy, and still asking for “just one more jump!”
In the evening, creativity took the lead. Using sticks, string, and a lot of imagination, the children designed and built their own catapults—cheering as each ball launched skyward. A wind-down session of board games brought the day to a calm, collaborative close.
Day Three: Teamwork Makes the Raft Work
Our final day arrived with sleepy smiles and another hearty breakfast. After packing up camp and saying goodbye to our trusty bell tents, the children faced their final challenge: raft building! With teamwork, problem-solving, and a few wet feet, the groups built float-worthy vessels and tested them out on the lake, laughing through every splash and wobble.
After one last lunch, it was time to head home—tired, proud, and buzzing with stories.
This trip wasn’t just about the adventures on water—it was about trying new things, stepping out of comfort zones, and cheering each other on. Every single child showed resilience, teamwork, and joy.
A huge well done to all—we’re so proud of what you achieved!
