As the first month at Wallace High School came to a close, the Class of 2031 embarked on an eagerly awaited tradition—Adventure Day. This annual event, a cornerstone of the Year 8 induction and support programme, allows students to step outside the classroom and bond with their new classmates. For the third year in a row, Bryson Pathways, one of the school’s Approved Award Providers for the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, facilitated the day’s activities.
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What is Year 8 Adventure Day?
Adventure Day is a fantastic opportunity for Year 8 students to spend quality time with their class tutors and peers. The excitement began as over 180 enthusiastic students boarded a convoy of coaches bound for the Ardnavally Scout Centre in Belfast. Energised by anticipation (and perhaps a little sugar), they were eager to kick off the day’s adventures.
Activities and Team Building
Upon arrival, each class was directed to a variety of activities designed to challenge and entertain. At the BB gun target range, students tested their accuracy, competing fiercely for bragging rights on the return journey. The bungee run had everyone trying to outlast the pull of the elastic cord—teachers included, whilst pupils raced against each other on the inflatable assault course.
Team-building exercises encouraged students to engage with classmates they might not have interacted with during the first few weeks of school. The team-building games involved communication, collaboration and steady hands! Other activities, like archery and tug-of-war, showcased both accuracy and athleticism, with fun at the heart of every challenge.
Reflections
With some very rare warm and dry weather, it was clear that everyone had a fantastic time. David, a member of the Class of 2031, shared his thoughts on the day: “It was such a fun adventure, getting out of school and getting to spend time with my new friends. I really enjoyed the shooting range and the inflatable obstacle course. It was brilliant to be able to race against my friends! I now have many fun memories from our first big day out as Wallace students.”
Mrs. Rogers, Head of Year 8, echoed these sentiments: “On Friday, September 20th, we had another successful Year 8 Adventure Day at the Ardnavally Scout Centre. Each year I look forward to this day as our new Year 8 pupils get a chance to make new friends, have fun outside of school and embrace the opportunities that Wallace has to offer. The range of activities, from archery to BB gun firing and team-building exercises, offered something for everyone. The inflatable obstacle courses were a particular hit with both students and staff. Our Senior Prefect Team were excellent role models for our younger pupils, and they got stuck in to all the activities.”
The success of the event is due in large part to the efforts of the Year 8 Pastoral Team and Mr. Finney for capturing the day’s moments on camera. A special thanks also goes out to the Senior Prefect Team for their support.
Year 8 Induction Programme
The Adventure Day is just one part of the Year 8 Induction Programme at Wallace. Year 8 pupils will soon have one to one interviews with their Year 8 tutors, take part in the annual House Quiz, have fun with their families at our Year 8 Quiz Night and bond over Christmas movies.
You can find out more about the Year 8 Induction Programme at Wallace via the link below:
Year 8 Induction Programme Link
We’re especially excited for the upcoming Year 8 concert in November!
To keep up to date with life at Wallace High School, follow @wallacehighlisburn on instagram.
Find out more about last years induction programme via the link below:
Last modified: October 4, 2024