Message from Mr Hymer: 6 April 2022
I know that the staff and boys will be happy leaving this afternoon with the prospect of the Easter break ahead. It has been a long stretch since returning after Christmas. Whilst hard, it has also been a most rewarding term with an outstanding concert, Year 4 play and sporting successes. It has also been one of the most exhausting terms I can recall with a revolving door of staff away and exceptional demands made on remaining staff in school. I know I speak for all parents in thanking staff for all their efforts.
No doubt the Year 6 boys slept well on Friday following a week away in North Wales. It proved to be a hugely rewarding experience as the boys enjoyed a host of challenges. I have no doubt that every boy found their own individual challenge during the week. The instructors proved to be expert in matching the level of challenge to the boys. I know from personal experience how hard the gorge walk proved to be.
The location of Plas-y-Brenin could not be any better. It sits beside a lake and stream beneath the impressive Moel Siabod. Beyond the lake lies Mount Snowdon - it is a spectacular setting.
Walking with the boys up Moel Siabod, it was lovely to see the boys enjoying the opportunity to take in the views. They truly sensed the awe and wonder of the location. They appreciated what a special part of Britain they were visiting. Hopefully some of the boys will be keen to persuade parents to consider a holiday back in North Wales. For many, climbing Moel Siabod was the first mountain that they had climbed. At 872 metres, it is a proper challenge. As with many of the challenges, I am sure they felt a sense of accomplishment.
No doubt being away from home for a week was a challenge in itself. Covid has put a stop to sleepovers and our normal programme of residential stays. These are all important as boys become more independent and learn to be self-reliant. Listening to instructions, looking after one another and working as a group are all essential skills.
Finally, I know that I speak on behalf of all the staff in commending the boys for their excellent company. One of the the most impressive instances came when they engaged in conversation with walkers on the mountain. The boys spoke intelligently, listening to their fellow walkers. The boys were a pleasure to be with and credit to all their families. The guides and staff at Plas-y-Brenin commented on how polite they were and (amazingly) how tidy they kept their rooms. The fact that there were Haribo prizes for the most orderly may have been a factor. I know plans are already in place to book again for our Year 5 boys.
