Last Saturday we ran a trip to explore some of the mines under Reading for the first time. 89th Reading Scouts look after the mine and were kind enough to give us a tour showing us many interesting things. The adventurous bit is getting down into the mine (and then climbing back out afterwards) – this involves descending down a 20m shaft. We used climbing harnesses and ropes to make sure we were safe. Once underground most of the mine is walkable – it is surprisingly big! We heard about the history of the mine from the early days of mining chalk in the 1600s up to it’s use in the second world war as a storage and military facility. We had no idea that there were such big mines under our feet with such fascinating history. We also had the opportunity to try a couple of squeezes and came out covered in chalk dust. It was a really fun trip and a completely different and worthwhile way to spend a Saturday morning. The climb back out was tiring but a great way to finish the trip. Well done to all the Upper IV students who came along and were such good company! After the success of this trip, we hope to offer the opportunity again next year.

Mr Godfrey