The week before last, Upper II embarked on an unforgettable residential trip to Juniper Hall, where field studies took centre stage. Nestled at the foot of the stunning Box Hill, the children dived into a week full of exciting activities, exploring the natural world and testing their outdoor skills.
One of the highlights of the trip was the hands-on exploration of different habitats. The children spent time in contrasting woodlands and ponds, observing the diversity of wildlife up close. They enjoyed pond dipping, using special keys to identify various living things they discovered. This deepened their understanding of ecosystems, and it was thrilling to see the excitement as they identified creatures like water boatmen and dragonfly larvae.
One evening, the children set up humane mammal traps, carefully preparing cosy beds and tasty snacks inside. Their efforts were rewarded the next morning when they found they had caught some furry visitors – mice and even a vole! After observing them, the creatures were safely released back into the wild, a memorable and heartwarming experience for all.
The trip also focused on building practical skills. Through orienteering and compass work, the children developed their navigational abilities, culminating in an exhilarating climb to the top of Box Hill. The reward? A breathtaking panoramic view that stretched for miles across the Surrey countryside! While there, they explored the fascinating Box Hill Folly, learning how it once served as a signalling point for the estate’s former owners, communicating across the valley to neighbouring homes.
That evening, the children channelled their creative sides. Using images they had captured earlier in the day, they created stunning watercolour landscapes of the scenery, applying only sponges to capture the beauty of their surroundings.
Bushcraft Day was another favourite, where teamwork was key. Working in small groups, the children built shelters in the woods, using only natural materials. The ultimate test came when these shelters were checked for waterproofing—a challenge that was met with much enthusiasm and laughter! This was followed by fire lighting and a subsequent bonfire in the evening, where songs were sung and marshmallows roasted.
Of course, the trip wasn’t all hard work! Sharing dorms added an element of fun and camaraderie to the week. Each evening, after a day of exploration, the children wound down with relaxing mindfulness sessions, helping them reflect on the day and get ready for the next adventure.
The Juniper Hall trip was a fantastic opportunity for the children to connect with nature, challenge themselves, and grow in both knowledge and confidence. It’s safe to say it will be a week they will remember for years to come!
