What a fantastic first week back for Crew Parton! We’ve spent time rebooting our crew, reconnecting with one another, and reflecting on our new guiding question: “How can we support each other and act as role models?”
Our fieldwork at Sandall Beat Woods gave us the chance to show courage as we tackled orienteering challenges, built fires, and explored the woodland to discover mini beasts. Working together outdoors reminded us of the importance of respect for both nature and each other.
Back in school, we enjoyed a day of fun inter-crew activities. We focussed on the character trait of integrity, thinking about what it means to make the right choices, even when no one is watching. Through teamwork and collaboration, we also showed compassion in the way we supported and encouraged each other.
Throughout the week, we have been reminded of the value of craftsmanship and quality – taking pride in the way we work and holding ourselves to high standards, both in and out of the classroom.
It’s been an inspiring start to the year, and Crew Parton is ready to keep growing together as role models in our school community as we make our journey through year 8 together.
After a night out on expedition, all of our C32 Crews are safely back at the centre – tired, happy, and full of stories. Since they’ve been back, their time has been about the simple but important things: food, rest, and sorting out their own kit after life outdoors.
This evening, the focus shifts from physical challenge to reflection. Crews are now preparing their presentations to answer the guiding question: “What does it mean to be Crew?” Tomorrow morning, before heading home, they’ll share their thoughts and experiences with the whole school – bringing together everything they’ve learned about teamwork, responsibility, and belonging.
It’s been a transformative few days already, and we can’t wait to see how the students capture the impact of their journey in their final reflections.
TOMORROW’S JOURNEY BACK HOME
We plan to leave the centre as close to 12:30pm as possible. Traffic dependent and including the stop for the drivers/services we should be back at XP for around 4pm.
However, the journey here took longer due to unplanned road closures and diversions – so we will keep in touch via the school website and allow students to call home when we are close.
Be sure to check back here for further updates tomorrow.
As our wonderful C28’s progress through their final year in school, there are a number of ways you can support their learning from home.
As such, we would like to invite all Y11 parents and students to our Y11 GCSE Information Evening at XP East on Wednesday, 10th September from 5-6pm.
This evening will focus on providing information about exam layout/content, alongside information and guidance around the revision/work required for each exam and component. This was a really useful evening last year to ensure parents know how to best support our wonderful Y11s throughout their GCSEs. Subject leads and some teachers will also be around if you have any questions.
We look forward to seeing you here!
[we are also aware that some students will be out completing their expedition for Silver DofE – parents/caregivers should still attend the GCSE evening].
Our second day at Outward Bound has been packed with adventure. Students have been challenging themselves in all kinds of ways, showing real courage and Crew spirit as they take on new experiences and support each other along the way.
Over the course of the day students have not only conquered the ever changing weather conditions, they’ve also hiked, scrambled and engaged in water activities!
This evening, Crews set off on their overnight expeditions – navigating, camping, and working together across the area. We look forward to welcoming them back tomorrow and hearing their reflections on the journey!
Crew Southgate have had a fabulous fun filled first two days with a walk around Langsett Reservoir followed by Crew team building and challenges today. I was so impressed with their teamwork, attitude and participation. They really gave it everything and demonstrated exactly what it means to be ‘Crew’.
We’re pleased to share that all of our C32 students and staff arrived safely at Ullswater today, ready to begin their Outward Bound adventure.
Day one started with a tradition that sets the tone for the week ahead: the famous “jog and dip.” Crews jogged down to the lake together before taking a refreshing dip in the water – a rite of passage that’s all about courage, resilience, and facing challenges as a Crew.
It was fantastic to see students already stepping outside their comfort zones and supporting one another. If today is anything to go by, this week promises to be an unforgettable experience.
You can follow #C32Crew on Facebook and X for updates throughout the week.
Crew Darling and X28 started the year off reconnecting, getting outside and embracing a hike together!
A few hours well spent walking around Langsett Reservoir in the Peaks, and capturing the views with some photography challenges! The walk has definitely started us on the right path for the rest of year 11!
Just a reminder that on our first day back (Tuesday 26 August), Year 11 students will be completing a hike around Langsett Reservoir. An information letter, kit list, and consent form has been sent to parents separately by email.
XP students should be at school by 8:15 on Tuesday 26 August for an 8:30 a.m. departure. Students will return to school by 2:30.
XPE students should be at school for the normal time, with a departure of 9:00 a.m. and returning to school by 3:00 p.m.
It looks as though rain may be possible so please ensure that your children are appropriately dressed for the weather. All students will need a packed lunch.
