Year 3 Advent Residential

On the 2^nd and 3^rd of December, Year 3 took part in their first overnight residential trip to the YHA at the Sill. One of the reasons we arranged this trip for December was to celebrate the festive period of Advent. Whilst at the Sill, the children took part in a beautiful Celebration of the Word whereby we reflected on the Word of God by sharing our thoughts on how to enjoy a peaceful Christmas. We discussed that whilst Advent is a time for preparation, it is also a good time to be reflective, thankful, appreciative and kind to others who are less fortunate than ourselves. We decorated our Focal Point with prayers of thanks to our loved ones for all they do for us, not just during Advent, but each and every day.  

Our day at the Sill consisted of a range of different activities, including a visit to Vindolanda. The children loved exploring the Roman Fort and imagining what life was like during Roman Britain. The fun certainly did not stop at Vindolanda as we had lots more exciting things planned at the Sill. Our afternoon consisted of an assortment of different craft activities. The children made beautiful Christmas cards, Christmas decorations and even decorated a tea light holder. We hope that the children can light their tea light over the festive period and many more festive periods to come, to remind themselves of our fantastic trip and the special memories that we made.  

The Sill is set in beautiful surroundings located a short walk away from Hadrian’s Wall and within a very peaceful dark skies area. We braved the cold night by wrapping up warm and heading outside with our torches to see what we could find. We found a quiet spot within the grounds of the Sill where we turned off our torches and stood quietly whilst we looked up at the sky absorbed all of the different sounds. We were overwhelmed with a star full of skies and could not believe how bright the moon was! It was a lovely moment to stop and take advantage of the wonderful setting in which we were staying for the night. We are so proud of Year 3 for their first experience overnight with school. The staff at the giftshop at the Sill commented on how polite, well-mannered and patient the children were when they were choosing and paying for their keepsakes. Well done Year 3, you were all fantastic!