Residential update: Thurs AM (final!)
And we have reached the last day! We are all sad that resi is over, although many children are growing excited at coming home too. None of us were woken by any children - I think they just crashed out with exhaustion, and therefore I think slept well.
Normally, I have to say that the last morning is the one that us resi adults dread the most. It's not the activities, or the coach ride home... its the packing. Honestly - in the past, it has been a near impossible task. However, we have all agreed that this year's group are actually the best for a long time! We had clear instructions from Charlie, who has been our PGL group leader throughout the week, to pack most things last night, strip our bed, duvet and pillow and pile them up before breakfast, then empty rubbish bins after before the final pack and leave rooms with everything. Some children were up and had stripped beds before we had even done ours! All beds were stripped without adult support (although for a small fee I will let you know if it was your child that asked where do I take the mattress to?', and this was something that 3 separate children asked).
We then bad our usual breakfast, and then as adults we steeled ourselves with thoughts of what beverages may be in the fridge for when we return home, to get through the final hour of packing. However, it was amazing! I found a total of 0 pants - yes, that's 0! Most children packed independently, with only a few needing some help to repack as yes, it is possible to get everything in it that came in it if you pack it properly. Adults did final checks but found very little. it was relatively painless and now all our things are locked away whilst the morning activities take place. I'm really very impressed by how they have all done.
This morning is abseiling and sensory trail, and all are in great spirits. We will then have lunch and then get the coach home. Please be ready for:
-children who are grumpy as they have slept on the coach even though it's only a 45 minute journey
-children whose cases and general appearance do not reflect their usual clean and tidy presentation
-children who will want to tell you everything, and also nothing, as they just need to sleep
-and most importantly, children who are incredibly proud of all they have achieved, who have coped with a 3 night stay away from home, who have faced fears, overcome them, supported each other, worked as a team, shown fantastic manners, been recognised by many of the instructors for their amazing behaviour and teamwork, followed rules (mostly), and made their adults super proud of each and every one of them.
See you all soon. Is it bedtime yet?
Mrs Rennison