Last Wednesday saw Year 3 and Year 4, travel to Edinburgh for a two night residential visit.
The trip began with a visit to Dynamic Earth where they enjoyed a show in the planetarium. They then embarked upon a trip through time and also visited many different biomes. “I enjoyed the polar region because you could feel an iceberg and dress up as a polar explorer,” Oscar. “I loved the shaking floor which simulated the volcano erupting,” Wilf .
The next stop was the National Museum of Scotland, a destination loved by all. “I liked the big T-Rex skeleton because it is the first one that I have ever seen,” Drew . A popular gallery was the animal gallery where everyone was keen to see if we could all weigh as much as a polar bear! “Edinburgh was great. I really enjoyed the National Museum – particularly the Formula One cars,” Owen A well deserved pizza followed, before they went to their accommodation for the night.
The second day began very early as they headed to Camera Obscura for a tour and to explore the fascinating optical illusions. “I really enjoyed playing with the shadow box. It was fun to pose and let the machine capture my shadow,” Zach . “The ladder to Australia was brilliant, and I would have loved to climb down it to see some kangaroos!” Lloyd .
A tasty treat awaited as they next headed to the Chocolatarium. “I really liked learning about chocolate and making my own chocolate bar,” Thomas. They found out about the creation of chocolate from the planting of seeds, to harvesting, to creating the vast range of chocolate we can buy in the shops. Perhaps a highlight of this visit was tasting all the different chocolates! “I thought the chilli and lime chocolate was delicious!” Oliver.
After a picnic outside the National Gallery of Scotland, the afternoon was spent exploring the Gallery, and enjoying a tour of the Real Mary King’s Close. Underneath the streets of Edinburgh the children explored a hidden street from the 1600s, learning about its inhabitants and their way of life. “Real Mary King’s Close was very interesting,” Freddie .
Inside the gallery the children were able to develop their artistic vocabulary and were challenged to spend 30 seconds just looking at one painting. “The average person spends only 9 seconds looking at a piece of art!” recalled Ibrahim. The day was completed with a visit to the ten-pin bowling alley, “It was great fun to bowl with my friends,” Godwin.
The last day dawned and everyone was issued with hard hats and harnesses, ready to challenge themselves at outdoor activities. “Climbing up the leap of faith was tricky, but I showed resilience and courage,” Oliver. “I was happy when I climbed up high on the crates – I managed to climb up seven!” Jaber.
Following a picnic lunch they returned to school, exhausted and full of happy experiences. “The trip helped me to develop my resilience when I was away from home,” Thomas.