Isle of Wight adventure for Farlington prep girls

The girls were given a full itinerary which was certainly action-packed, with never a dull moment. Not only did the trip enrich the girls’ learning in relation to the curriculum, but it also allowed the girls to learn how to be independent and to use team building skills, as well as develop leadership qualities.

The trip educated the girls in a variety of ways. History, Geography, Ecology and Zoology, English, Drama, Art and PE were all covered, but in such a way that the girls were learning without actually realising it.

Whether it was acting in the theatre workshop, finding out about sailors during Queen Victoria’s reign or learning how conservation is saving the ring-tailed lemurs in their natural landscape of Madagascar. The itinerary included visits to HMS Warrior, the Dinosaur Isle Museum, the Isle of Wight Zoo, a Needles Pleasure Cruise as well as an exploration of Osborne House. But don’t think that it was all work and no play. The girls still had time to have fun - building sand sculptures on the beach, ten pin bowling and even a night at the theatre where they experienced a musical extravaganza based on pirates searching for treasure.

From the teachers’ point of view, this sort of residential trip is a great way of developing bonds outside the school environment. It allows the girls to see the teachers in a more informal role and sets them on the right road for Senior School and the different types of relationships with teachers they will have there.

Sarah Welsh, Farlington’s Prep 6 teacher, who went on the trip, said “The girls had an adventurous and informative week away, relaxing with members other than their family. In fact, several mentioned they would love to stay for another week. All the girls gained something from their week away. They learned how to work, eat and sleep together, to enjoy the camaraderie and above all to have fun. It is something that they will never forget.”

Report and picture contributed by Farlington School.