A chilling experience at Bowles
Tuesday 20 January 2009
On Wednesday the 3rd of December we set out to Bowles in Tonbridge Wells. This trip would enable students on the Btec National Public Service course to complete several units in a practical environment. The trip started out very well on a cold but sunny afternoon. The first activity took place at Harrison‘s Rocks where the group took part in bouldering and climbing. The evening was very cold but this did not put the group off from their problem solving activities. However, during the second problem solving activity, students seemed to be suffering from a lack of motivation until one of the group fell into the icy cold and very smelly bog!
The next day started off terribly with very heavy rains and gale force winds. This did not dishearten this very determined group of young men. It had completely the opposite effect and kicked them into gear ready for the first of the day‘s activities on the High Ropes, and believe me, they were very high. The afternoon‘s activities took on a lighter note with a more alpine feel.
Skiing was the order of the afternoon, finishing up with a few toboggan races. There were a few bruised egos after this session, especially when two of the group fell off the ski lift, causing the rest who were following a few problems. The evening of the second day took place in much warmer waters (the pool) where the group took part in a canoe session that
will hopefully prepare them for a future expedition on the river with an overnight stay.
The last day included a raft building contest in the pool; the rafts had to be seen to be believed. It was a session of non stop
comedy moments and some good and not so good knot tying. The last activity took place upon Jacobs‘s ladder, a very tricky
team problem to which each team performed excellently and a leap of faith from the top of a thirty foot, very wobbly telegraph pole to a trapeze hanging ten feet away. Everyone in the group attempted this, most were successful especially one young man who completed this task blindfolded.
The entire trip was a complete success and the students representing the school did us proud. They were very considerate and even other groups commented on how well they behaved throughout their stay.