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Fernhurst Primary School

Residential visits

It is well documented that outdoor learning can have a profound effect on children to support their academic progress as well as building up those vital character skills such as: resilience, teamwork and overcoming challenges..  As a result of this, we offer an experience to all children in years 3-6 every year.  

Year 6

The children set us the challenge of finding somewhere that would enable them to try snow and water sports as well as climbing.  The challenge was accepted - we discovered Calshot!  In a prime location on the shores of the Solent, Calshot Activities Centre is one of the largest outdoor adventure centres in Britain.  They offer a wide range of exciting water and land-based activities for all ages and abilities. Their historic hangars accommodate the tallest climbing wall in the South,  dry slope and so much more.  With beautiful beaches, views of the Isle of Wight and instant access to both sheltered and more challenging waters – the unique location, experienced instructors and high-quality equipment means they’re the perfect place for our Y6 residential.  We go in the Autumn term to help the class to bond as a team.  This helps them as they move through Y6.  See Autumn residentials | Hampshire County Council (hants.gov.uk) for further information.

Year 5

As part of the WW2 unit that Y5 study, they get the opportunity to 'Kip in a Ship'.  This offers an exciting and affordable sleepover experience  in the heart of London, where adventurous ‘Kippers’ get to sleep in original sailor’s bunks for the ultimate after-hours experience.  After learning about how and what sailors ate, the kids will then enjoy a traditional and delicious dinner, based on a Royal Navy menu. Throughout dinner service, the Kippers will take part in various activities, including learning ‘Jack Speak’, discovering what sailors wore, and where different locations can be found around the 9 decks of HMS Belfast.  The children will have the unique opportunity to discover the realities of life on a warship, and learn about some of the different jobs on board that helped to keep this floating town shipshape.  For more information visit Kip in a Ship | Imperial War Museums (iwm.org.uk).

Years 3 and 4

As a school that is situated in the heart of the South Downs National Park, we recognise the importance of ensuring our children understand how to look after their world.  During their 'One Planet' topic, children in Y3/4 will have the opportunity to visit the Sustainability Centre for a two night residential.  The children will enjoy story telling and outdoor games at the end of their day exploring the extensive grounds, giving even more time to develop self esteem, sense of community and confidence whilst being away from home with their year group.  Examples of Green Living and sustainable solutions are built into the fabric of the trip, underpinning the work that the children have been doing as part of their 'One Planet' topic. Take a look at their website for more details Schools (sustainability-centre.org)

We recognise that it is a financially challenging time for families and aim to support where we are able to.  We recognise that not all children will attend every residential opportunity but will do everything we can to support the whole year group to attend the Y6 experience as this will be their final primary opportunity to go on a residential experience.  If you have any concerns over your child attending - please just get in touch with your child's teacher - together, we can make it work.  If you are struggling with payments please have a word with our office staff who are here to help and be supportive in whatever way we can be.