Day One
It’s the end of the day and the children have just gone to bed (9pm). Lots of bleary eyed 9 and 10 year olds, and a few adults too.
After arriving at 10:45, we embarked on the 2 mile trip up to the castle; along the canal, over the train tracks and then up the hill to Dobroyd Castle where we finally got to rest our legs and get our breath back. The children were full of enthusiasm and excitement but hungry and ready for a refill before starting their first activities of the trip.
We separated into our groups (Crag, Ridge, Forest, Wood and Mountain) and met our leaders. Armed with helmets, harnesses, waterproofs and life jackets, we were ready. First activities were canoeing, knights quest and the giant swing. Children had to overcome their fears of heights and water in the face of some wind and wild rain coming at us sideways. Nevertheless, we embraced the conditions and had a brilliant time. Not even an hour of getting soaked lessened the energy levels for the children. Mountain and Crag groups went on to caving, Ridge and Forest tried the canoeing and Wood tested out the Nightline.
By the time 6pm came, we were able to sample the legendary Robinwood dinners. The adults had a wide choice to go for. We chose the scampi and chips and the mushroom tagliatelle. The children gleefully stuffed themselves full of fish fingers. The chef even ‘complained’ to us that they had come up for thirds. Choc ices or sticky toffee pudding and custard followed before we began the games night. I think there was a vendetta against the teachers as we seemed to lose this. I can’t imagine why.
It’s now 10pm and considering the night staff have not said anything, the children must have all finally conked out. You can all go to bed now parents. Day one: over and out!
