On Monday 2 November, 38 Year 12 students travelled to Howtown, the Outward Bound Centre in the Lake District for a week's residential.

On Monday 2 November, 38 Year 12 students travelled to Howtown, the Outward Bound Centre in the Lake District for a week's residential. The students took part in a Teams and Leaders course, which encouraged participants to explore their capabilities and broaden their horizons. Students had to manage their own time, solve problems, become an effective team player and develop essential leadership skills. The course instructors aimed to stretch the students both mentally and physically.

Once the students arrived at the centre, they had to take part in a jog and dip which meant jumping into a freezing lake. During the week, the students took part in climbing, raft building and canoeing. All of these activities were designed to encourage students to form successful high-performing teams and gain a greater understanding of the various leadership styles.

The highlight of the week was the overnight expedition. Despite cold conditions, the students completed a difficult walk before setting up camp for the evening. A tired group returned to Howtown the following day but they had all thoroughly enjoyed their adventure. Once everything was cleaned up, their boots returned and borrowed kit handed in, the group had time to reflect on the week and what they had learnt. All students confirmed through the presentation they gave on Friday that they had enjoyed themselves immensely (even the camping) and they would use their newly developed skills when they returned to the Academy.

Miss Bell and Mr Bede were incredibly proud of the students and what they had achieved over the week and said, It was a pleasure to spend a week with a group of enthusiastic and committed young people. All of the students were a credit to themselves and the Academy; we look forward to going back next year.