A glorious tree-climbing in-weekend for the boarders...

The summer is here!  With glorious weather, St. George’s day, Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary all hot on the heals of the Queen’s birthday and plenty of cricket, rounders and tennis in play, Hazlegrove was a picture of quintessential England on Saturday.  The girls won their Rounders and all the boys teams beat their opposition.  A nippy BBQ was enjoyed by all although some of the Year 8s will need to learn of the importance of burning their meat to be truly British.  They loved using the fire pits though.

Sunday was a terrific day.  The main focus was on tree climbing.  With 8 lines hooked over various branches of the cedar tree in the woods, groups of eight children scurried up their lines in a race to have their route cemented in history.  Rackham’s Ridge, Blakey’s Branch and Cattermole’s Col were some that were named.  It was a great success and a serious work out for all involved.  It all made us realise what a beautiful and monstrously large tree it is!

The go-karts were flying around the track, bunting was produced in metres in preparation for the ‘Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’ and of course the Nerf Guns were out in force.  Mr Lilford taught some of the children the savage intricacies of Aussie Rules and Mr Robertson put up our new ‘Chill Out Zone’ tent which the elder children loved especially with Heart FM filling the space!

Catering wise, we were not to be disappointed.  The Tree Climbing Men were heard to ask whether Hazlegrove had been awarded a Michelin Star.  A full English Breakfast in the morning, roast beef and Tiramisu for lunch, pizza making, scone and biscuit baking (with clotted cream and jam of course), the ice cream van and finally our evening supper, an exquisite chicken pie.  Oh my Goodness…..we are happy but ready to pop!

The afternoon saw two trips out of the grounds.  One to Ham Hill for ‘Kick the Can’ and various games and walking.  The other off to the local ‘Bluebell Woods’ which by all accounts were breathtaking.  Meanwhile, back at base, Mario and Luigi were preparing the pizza oven and dough, whilst a game of Capture the Flag, a Treasure Hunt and a continuation of the Racketlon were in full throe.  The Water Slide was also dusted down with some fairy liquid and once again the cause of much merriment and laughter.  The pool was then in full action post Ice Cream van which saw many interesting colours emanate from slush puppies and Mr Whirly.

By the evening we were all contentedly fatigued, exhilarated and feeling rather fortunate to be part of such a special community.  Hazlegrove Boarding is really in bloom!

Click here to see the photo album of the April in weekend in Flickr