Ecoventure – 2023

Ecoventure 2023

 

What a wonderful week of adventure! The Ecoventure students set off on Sunday, March 5th to the Al Sayh Ecoventure Camp in the UAE, where they spent five action-packed days at camp. 

 

It was a trip filled with great new friendships, incredible teamwork and brilliant memories. There were a wealth of opportunities to see an organic use of our 8Cs in action. The activities ranged from team-building tasks to independent challenges that pushed comfort zones!

 

Throughout the week, there were many highlights:

Jacob’s Ladder, Leap of Faith, Climbing Wall, Archery, High Ropes, kayaking, canoeing, raft building and Orienteering to name a few, were thoroughly enjoyed by our Nadeen Ecoventurers.

 

My favourite moment was when I jumped from the platform on the Leap of Faith. I hit the hanging target and I am very proud of myself for taking on the challenge.” (Yousif – Year 6)

 

On day 3 of camp, the group went on a day trip to Al Hamra Village for a day filled with water sports activities. There was canoeing, raft-building, kayaking and ball games in a really beautiful setting. The students also got to have lunch at the Al Hamra Beach Club as an added bonus.

 

I really enjoyed it when we went to the lagoon because there were so many fun water activities. The best part for me was kayaking because we got to go out on our own and challenge ourselves.” (Mayan – Year 6)

The students and teachers were immersed in activities from morning to late evening. Activities were delivered by a team of upbeat Ecoventure instructors. They ensured all students were safe, having fun and most of all pushing themselves to try new challenges.

 

“My biggest challenge was building the raft at the lagoon. There were lots of pieces to put together by our team and we had to learn to tie special knots to complete the construction.” (Saba – Year 5)

 

Evenings were spent with instructors setting team challenges. Whacky Races Night had the teams competing against one another. Drama Night produced hilarious impersonations and mini-dramas and the final evening rounded off a lovely week with a Campfire Night. The students celebrated their achievements and successes of the week during the prize-giving activity.

 

“My favourite thing about Ecoventure was the orienteering challenge. We had to race against other teams to search and find hidden places around the camp. It was really fun!” (Saif – Year 5)

 

I really enjoyed the evening chill time when we played teachers in matches. We got to play against the teachers in basketball, football and we even had a water fight! It was brilliant! (Mahmoud – Year 7)

 

By the end of the week, we had many confident and competent outdoor survivors who fully immersed themselves in the natural world. It was a fabulous week with some amazing personal development witnessed by the teachers and instructors.

 

“I am over the moon to have seen children tackle and overcome fears! The high rope activities were really challenging. It was great to see the smiles on their faces when the students conquered a challenge!” (Mr Phil)

 

It was an amazing experience for students, there were so many highlights for me. I was really proud to see so many students face challenges head on but what I enjoyed most about the trip was the Drama Night where students produced hilarious impersonations of instructors and teachers. We have many students that will be getting involved in Drama Club.” (Mr Gerry) 

 

“This was my third time overseeing the Ecoventure trip and I enjoy it more and more each time! The children were wonderful and continue to exceed my expectations. Their manners were exemplary and the students always had smiles on their faces to complete their evening activities, even after energy-sapping daily activities. I look forward to seeing all of these students again on our future school trip adventures!” (Mr Kyle)

 

“What a trip this has been! It’s been amazing to see students work hard as groups and also challenge themselves daily with all the activities. The behaviour of the students has been impeccable and has been a true delight to be around this week. I’m pretty sure that the kids won’t miss my morning wake-up calls!” (Mr Jack)

 

I’m so proud of each and every student who either tried something new, supported a friend, made a new friend or learned a new skill.  It has been amazing to see the growth that has taken place in our students in such a short time. I would like to thank my colleagues. It has been an absolute pleasure doing it with you all. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!” (Ms Karlien)

“This was a fabulous experience for all the ‘Nadeen children’. Not only with the new skills gained but the fabulous way in which they taught us new skills about themselves. They were so open to taking risks and having a go-  it was incredible to watch and indeed a privilege to see how forward thinking and adaptable these children are. Well done to one and all you were outstanding!” (Ms Agnes)

 

Finally, we want to thank all the parents who made this trip possible for their children. Your children were tenacious and showed a lot of courage as they faced their fears, worked as part of a team and creatively solved problems. We’re sure that you are just as proud of these superstars as we are. 

 

Last but not least, a HUGE thank you must go to Mr Kyle, Ms Moza and Mr Paul in accounts. Without their efforts and organisation Ecoventure would never happen! The entire trip was simply brilliant!