Walks, ice creams and the Cube - a weekend at Hazlegrove

As is customary on a Sunday, the boarders were treated to a delicious cooked breakfast that filled everyone with the energy to enjoy the day.

There was a brief pause to write a letter home, informing loved ones of all that had been learning and enjoying in the previous week. Many letters included details of the sporting endeavours that had taken place in what was known as ‘Super Saturday’ the day before, with many nail-biting finishes to matches. Others wrote about all that they were looking forward to that day and in the week ahead. 

Jerseys then came off as we trekked on Mr Forbes’ favourite route around the school grounds. Mr Head led the way and it was clear to see why it was such a favourite as we took in the incredible views across our beautiful patch of Somerset. The sun shone and we were in high spirits, a chance to mingle and catch-up with different friends that we hadn’t had the opportunity to speak to. Passing by to say a quick hello to some of the local wildlife (the cows) on two circuits that both paused in the Jubilee Wood for some late summer fun and games. Frisbees whizzed through the air, rugby balls were booted to enormous heights as friends wandered and chatted. At the end of the walk the most incredible sight came into view... our very own HZG ice cream van! The children came up to the side of the van/minibus and placed their order. We sat down to enjoy the music from the radio and the taste of cool ice-cream in our mouths. This was just the type of refreshment we all needed on such a warm day.  

A small window of free time meant that pupils were able to choose if they wanted to squeeze in a few holes of golf, jump on their bikes, make bracelets or play a spot of cricket before sitting down to lunch.  

A hearty roast dinner filled our stomachs as we found a good spot on the front lawn and returned to the adventure on the pages of our book. Birdsong and the gentle rustle of the wind through the leaves provided a soundscape that was perfect for some calm relaxation. 

To spice things up, Miss Aggett introduced a little friendly competition. The children were split into smaller groups to take on ‘The Cube’. Working as part of a team, the children had to try to pass different challenges that were based on the hit TV gameshow. With huge prizes at stake (chocolate and pride), you could feel the tension in the room, the pressure was truly on! Children were split into 8 mixed teams with a good distribution of ages, team names were selected, and the game was on. The final was held in front of a live studio audience in the Fitzjames Hub, with ‘9-sided’ emerging as the winners. 

Into the next break of free-time and a large group dashed off excitedly to grab their biking and skateboarding gear and then headed for the ramps. There were some very impressive skills and with the look of sheer determination etched across our riders’ faces you could have easily believed you were watching Bradley Wiggins or Victoria Pendelton. 

It was great to come back together afterwards through the shared experience of a movie and popcorn, rivalries were moved to one side and friendships were reinstated. 

A lovely way to spend a Sunday at Hazlegrove! 

Mr Brown

Click here to see all the photographs on Flickr