Pupils experience adventure on joint Kingswood residential trip

Pupils at Shireland Technology Primary, in Smethwick, and Holyhead Primary Academy, in Wednesbury, recently took an exciting residential trip to Kingswood, Staffordshire, where they experienced the joys of the great outdoors and had exciting adventures.

The all-inclusive trip provided pupils with a taste of independence being away from home and the opportunity to make new friendships while exploring new activities and experiences, giving pupils memories that will last them a lifetime.

As a leading residential and outdoor activity centre provider for over 35 years, Kingswood offers transformative school trips designed to help pupils build a range of skills and personal development opportunity, including confidence, teamwork and resilience, through a variety of fun and educational challenges and activities.

Principal at Holyhead Primary Academy, Mrs Natalie Shipley, said: Learning outdoors has so many benefits such as supporting positive wellbeing, confidence building and exploration. All of these were achieved by our pupils who attended this year’s residential trip to Kingswood.

“We were so proud of all their personal achievements and support they offered each other, as for some this was their first stay away from their families. Our residential was further enhanced by the Shireland staff and pupils that joined us at Kingswood, forging new friendships and sharing new experiences.” 

Over 175,000 young people visit Kingswood each year to participate in a range of activities including team-based games, pond dipping, bushcraft, being offsite explorers in the countryside, experiencing the sounds and sights of nature by night and even tackling the odd obstacle course.

Lady Kirsty Grundy, Principal at Shireland Technology Primary and Primary Director for Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, said: “The Kingswood residential trip was an incredible experience for our pupils. It provided them with opportunities to learn new skills, make new friends and create memories that will last a lifetime.

“We were so impressed by the way our pupils faced challenges with resilience and determination, working together to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As a new school, this was our first trip away and was a valuable opportunity for our pupils to develop their confidence and independence in a supportive, nurturing environment. It was equally special to share this with the staff and pupils of Holyhead Primary too.”