Prep IV were very excited as they travelled by coach along the beautiful coast of the A55 towards our destination in Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, the second longest place name in the world! The weather was perfect and the sun glistened on the Menai Straits as we arrived at the Conway Centre which was formally a naval base and is next door to the former residence of Lord Anglesey.
We entered our self-contained accommodation and meeting room eager to eat our lunch and get down to the quayside. We were going to work in teams of 5 with an adult in 2 canoes strapped together. The children entered the water with some trepidation but they soon gained confidence playing games within the shelter of the harbour. It was now time to push ourselves in to the Menai Straits. The children had some interesting techniques with their paddles but our progress was good and we were soon in Lord Anglesey’s old swimming tunnel below his manor. It was a little spooky but the children (and staff) were very brave. We continued our journey in the sea spotting jellyfish, sea weed and a variety of sea birds. This was a great adventure! Several children managed to stand up in their canoe and overcome our activity leader’s challenge.
We finally returned to the harbour after 2 hours working as successful teams. This teamwork continued as the children lifted the heavy canoes out of the water. Many children then jumped in to the sea from the harbour ramp. Austin did it 5 times! Our instructors were delighted with the children saying that we paddled further than most high school children!
It was soon time for our meal which was fish and chips or macaroni cheese with peas and salad. It was plentiful and delicious! The children then played with the freedom of the large grass play area until dusk approached and the call of the delights of the shop beckoned.
At the time of writing the children are all in bed asleep with their teachers sat with fingers crossed that it remains that way until breakfast and our morning climbing challenge.
