There was a stream, Docken's Water, some trees, two bridges, some fires, a couple of good buddies and enough sun to make do. It was boy bliss.
Our Senior boys, all but Scouts were able to rise to the challenge.
It was billed as the Polar Bear Camp with the promise of a ‘special' badge if the temperature dipped below freezing and that worked too.
So, the chosen eighteen arrived to the perfect new camp site, deep deep in the Forest. The Dog had known since the forest tent went up that boys were coming. We had to be quick! Not much time between arrival and darkness, dinner and tents but they managed and there was even time for night wide game across Black Barrow.
Saturday dawned cold but not quite freezing.
There were several litres of hot chocolate and lots of fire for breakfast as Mr. Urquhart unloaded the rabbits and Dr. Roberts arrived for the field study. We had crepes and maple syrup and by lunch, a dozen rabbits had been skinned, gutted, and spitted to roast. Mr. Moore declined to take one back for Mrs. Moore.
This was followed by fire lighting and pan fried pizzas, and then a devilish "Dirt" a concoction of chocolate biscuits, gummies and whipped cream all on top of a selection of pan fried rabbit...
Orienteering was good, map and compass across the open Forest to Ogdens for ice cream and then back with a very happy dog. We strung a Commando Bridge across the stream. We had the cover off the pool for the Polar Bear Dip and then it was Capture the Flag with shouts and running.
Dinner was very fine burgers, salad and home made apple turnovers, a campfire with skits, before the boys were tucked up and the thermometer plummeted.
It was cold and definitely below zero (minus 4 on the thermometer)with frozen mist in the tents and ice in the washing up bowls. We needed an extra hot fire to defrost the campers before the enormous breakfast.
As this was Scout camp much of the food prep, cooking, and camp work as possible was passed on to the boys, and there was use of the bow saw and of course, dishes to wash! Click here to see some of our pictures!
Striking camp was an all morning affair, and it was a pretty grubby tired group by midday.
Our thanks to a really great team of dads,(and one mum) Mr. Ed, Mr. Fairfield and our Camp Dog.
Posted on:14/03/2010
The X Factor Grand Final was a huge success. There were soloists and boy bands, duets and girl groups. The judges debated heartily but young Isabella's talent shone through to scoop first place. ![]()
Posted on:10/03/2010
A wonderfully sunny (but cold) afternoon awaited the brave Cubs who ventured to Poulner Junior school on Sunday to compete in the New Forest Cub football competition. Once all they boys had arrived we split into two teams in order to compete in the matches ahead. The A Team had a disappointing start, losing to Poulner Cubs in their first match, but fought back to win all their remaining games achieving 12 points from a maximum of 15. The B Team played well but with two losses and two draws managed a total of 5 points. However these great results meant we were able to take 2nd and 3rd places overall in the competition.
Special mention goes to our two team captains, the two Dan's, for their brilliant performances.
Posted on:08/03/2010
Everyone had a 'spring' in their step on Friday as the annual spring music concerts launched a sunny and spring-like sleepout weekend. The middle school children amazed the audience with their skills ( ...'and so good at such a young age!', I heard one proud granny exclaim!) Every year group performed a number ranging from the story of Rapunzel told through story and music, to Fossils, (year 3) and Creepy Crotchets (year 4). There were some extraordinary solos from Guy, Max and Alice as well as many other performances.
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The Seniors took over after lunch to an admiring crowd. The Senior choir, the orchestra, jazz band and rock group could rival any Senior School whilst solo performances and alternative groups displayed sheer genius! A highlight in both performances was to hear Toby play accompanied by the string group. As a newly appointed member of the National Youth Orchestra, Toby was able to display his extraordinary talents. Thanks to all the staff, the children and to the parents who encourage the practising required to reach such a standard! CLICK HERE to catch a glimpse!
Posted on:08/03/2010
Former Forres pupil, Michael Foot died today age 96. He was a passionate football supporter (like someone else we know, but he was captain of cricket at Forres in 1927. He was well known for his great wit, his politics and writings and became Leader of the Labour Party in 1980.
Posted on:03/03/2010