Good evening all,

After arriving in the eye of Storm Gareth yesterday, the weather has transformed into a glorious first full day allowing us to spend it exploring and enjoying the surroundings of this incredible site. Excitedly, we ditched the waterproofs for layers, a much appreciated change.

For a year 4 residential trip, we had a fantastic first night. Having been exhausted by the evening activity, the children settled in for a story read by Mr Dockree before heading up to their rooms to get a well-earned rest. It meant for an excellent night’s sleep for children and adults alike.

After filling up on a hearty breakfast, we headed out for our first activities of the day, navigation and fire building for some, and rock pooling for others. Safe to say that rock pooling has become an early highlight of the trip for all. There were crabs, fish, prawns, enemies and many other marine wildlife. Once examined, they were safely returned to the sea (the wildlife, not the children).

Afternoon activities consisted of den designing and smuggler challenges. The Isle of Wight has a long history of smuggling, with the East Dene building at the centre of this. Therefore, the children were given the opportunity to experience what it was like and loved taking on this role. With many shining in the role, please contact us if anyone would like us to keep their children here to take up the role full time.

Dinner will be a highlight of the evening with many tasty options available. Following this, the ‘Murder Mystery’ activity this evening is an event that goes down in Anton folklore. The staff take on the role of many wild and wonderful characters ready to be interrogated by the children. You know what they say, people that can’t act, teach… and it will never be more accurate than the performances turned out this evening. The Oscars will no doubt be safe for another year.

I am confident the children will settle even quicker having been busy all day and ready to get their heads down before another day of excitement begins bright and early tomorrow.

Enjoy your evening J