Grade Seven Hike
Mr Shaw writes: “On Friday the 20th January, 39 Grade Seven‟s and their tutors donned hiking shoes and a pack and headed off towards Mount West. The route took the children through Nottingham Road, with a quick stop at Notties Hotel … for a photo… and on to Fordoun. With the sun making a stronger appearance at this stage, a swim in one of the many dams was appreciated. What should have then been a short easy amble across some farm land towards the culvert under the N3, turned into a far longer and demanding exercise.
The recent rains had created a chest deep swamp resulting in some members of the group (staff included) experiencing unintended swims! And then, the previously open culvert had been blocked by an electric fence. Fortunately the practically minded in the group made a plan and we were able to progress. As the day wore on and muscles began to shout, and with the heat of the day, it was with relief that we were able to hitch a lift with local farmers for the last three kilometres to our overnight destination at Reggie Purbrick‟s farm.
Some more swimming in the dam, fishing and relaxing was enjoyed after the demands of the hike. Reggie and his team, with Mevrou Borgen‟s help, provided a fine dinner that evening. Thereafter a fierce game of fire-ball hockey was played between teams and many shrieks of fear and laughter filled the night air.
After a good breakfast, the children spent some time setting goals as part of the Grade Seven Learning for Life programme for the year ahead.”
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