In June, the normal school timetable was suspended and Backwell School students in Years 7, 8, and 9 embarked on a week-long journey of adventure and discovery during the highly anticipated Enrichment Week.

The week was filled with tailor-made trips and activities designed to push students out of their comfort zones, enhance their learning experiences, and foster new friendships beyond the familiar classroom environment.

Year 7 Adventures: Year 7 students enjoyed an energetic week split between two nights of camping in the scenic Mendip Hills at the renowned Mendip Activity Centre, a leading outdoor learning venue set on a sprawling 250-acre site.  The camping experience in the Mendips provided students with a unique opportunity to connect with nature, develop teamwork skills, and build resilience through outdoor challenges.

The remaining days were spent participating in onsite activities, including an African dance workshop where students were introduced to characteristic of traditional African dance. Another popular activity was the circus skills session. This interactive workshop allowed students to explore a variety of circus arts, such as juggling and plate spinning, encouraging students to push their boundaries and develop new talents in a fun and supportive environment.

Year 8 Explorations: Year 8 students had a packed week filled with diverse experiences. In addition to drumming workshops and martial arts class, students had the opportunity to participate in several other enriching activities, from the excitement of a jousting show at Warwick Castle, delved into the vibrant Bristol street art scene, with a walking tour, and even tried their hands at making Vietnamese street food, as well as participating in martial arts and drumming classes and a visit from Animal Encounters.  These activities broadened their cultural horizons and provided practical skills and memorable experiences.

“I liked the drumming and how we got to dance and have a fun time, I also enjoyed the martial arts as I got to try a new activity that I wouldn’t have tried before”.

“The animal encounters and Warwick Castle and the cooking was my favourite and mojo active”

Year 8 Student Feedback

Year 9 Cornwall Residential: Year 9 students embarked on a four-night residential trip to Cornwall, where they engaged in a varied programme of activities at the beautiful Falmouth University (Penryn Campus). The trip included a visit to the iconic Eden Project and culminated in a celebratory beach BBQ. The picturesque setting and the diverse activities offered students a perfect blend of education, adventure, and relaxation, fostering a sense of independence and camaraderie among the students.

“I was thrilled with how much my daughter gained and how much she enjoyed the recent enrichment week. Please thank all the team on our behalf as they did such a wonderful job looking after the young people”.

“Just wanted to thank you all for the time and energy you put into the trip to Falmouth in the lead up to and last week. B had a great time and has talked about it lots over the weekend. From the activities and accommodation to the staff and the food he enjoyed it all. Sitting chatting and playing cards with his friends in the evening was a highlight and he saw the benefit of being phone free!”

Year 9 Parent Feedback

BENEFITS OF ENRICHMENT WEEK

The feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive. Many highlighted the formation of new friendships and the opportunity to try activities for the first time as the greatest benefits of the week.

Enrichment Week at Backwell School has once again proven to be a resounding success, providing students with invaluable experiences that extend far beyond the traditional curriculum.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the dedication, hard work and expertise of Backwell School staff and the professionalism of our provider partners.

A huge thanks also to the students from Years 7, 8 and 9 for being so wonderful and giving every activity and new adventure their all!