Sir John Cass's Foundation have entered into a five year partnership, whereby students from any of the Cass Institutions can participate in outdoor activities at the Centre.
I visited the children and staff today and the quality of teaching and learning is outstanding. I accompanied a group for the day. In the morning we went pony trekking and in the afternoon we went on a waterfall adventure. Our children were bursting with excitement about their achievements over the last few days. And some incredible experiences they've had too! This is no ordinary Centre where you get a sanitised version of outdoor education. It offers safe, yet truly challenging and exceptionally rewarding outdoor education.
Two things will stick with me from today.
The first is about high expectations. I didn't expect to be sliding on my bottom down a river, climbing under a waterfall or hoisting myself up onto rock formations about 20 minutes after we got to our destination. The instructors expect much from the children. And our children sure do rise to the challenge! Our children were able to push at the boundaries of their comfort zone- to truly learn new things and new ways of interacting with each other.
The second is about opportunity. I tell the children that the grasping hand holding onto the fish at the top of our crest (Sir John's own coat of arms) reminds us to seize every opportunity; grasp the chance of new learning, and relish new experiences. Any parent at home this week missing their ten or eleven year old would be very proud of them doing just that- making the most out of their excellent visit to the Hamshire Cass Mountain Centre!
With thanks,
Tim Wilson
Headteacher
A note on photos: We've noticed that we need a better balance to our photos. Don't worry about this, When publishing this post I've only had access to some of the files. The Centre has a waterproof camera with each group and the leader takes photos of all the activities. We will have many more to share when the children return on Friday.