Prep VI make a splash in Anglesey

Unusually for a Prep VI residential trip – but definitely a plus – no one dragged in a suitcase or bag bigger than them this morning for our trip to Anglesey. Quickly loading up the coach and strapping in, it was not long before we were on our way. Having been told that we would not be far from the residential centre once the children noticed that we were crossing a broad expanse of water, there was great excitement when we reached the Thelwall Viaduct – after all, it met all the criteria – other, of course, than the fact that we not in Wales!

After a stress free journey, it didn’t actually seem that long before we were arriving at our destination. After one of Mr. Green’s super packed lunches, our instructor Jim told us to prepare for an afternoon on the water – half the children kayaking, and half paddle boarding. For those kayaking, the preparation was a little easier as they simply needed clothes they did not mind getting wet. For those paddle boarding, it was a little more taxing – anyone who has ever tried to put a wetsuit on will know exactly what we mean! Eventually, even Mr. Connolly and Mr. Suter managed to get in theirs and so off we went to the jetty. After a short walk past Plas Newydd House – where our children were amazed to learn that the current Marquess of Anglesey who lives in the upper floors, walks his dogs on the roof to avoid summer visitors – we made our way to the dock to get all of our necessary equipment. Our kayakers went off with Jim, while Jo took our paddleboard group. For both groups, after an initial practise session, it was out into the Menai Straits for a bit more adventure. Plas Newydd House and gardens are impressive anyway, with the Menai bridge in the background, but from the water they are simply stunning. Not that many of our children noticed that – they were more concerned with the jellyfish and seaweed in the water! We had a bit of history thrown into the mix too – under the sea wall of the house is a tunnel that you can enter from the sea. Interestingly, it seems that this was a Victorian private indoor swimming pool, with changing rooms heated with an open fire, for the Marquises’ predecessors to enjoy the benefits of the salt water. Certainly all of our paddle boarders experienced that, as they all went in at one stage or another!

After a choice of three courses for dinner, it was time for student-led activities on the vast front lawn of the centre – it certainly puts Drywood to shame! Then the children used their orienteering skills to find clues around the grounds of the centre, before chillaxing with a bit of a film before bed. As we type, lights are going out, teddies are being cuddled, but then we’ll get Miss McEvoy back on task to help put lights out, ensuring a good night’s sleep for the children ready for tomorrow!