R5 Residential Recap 2025

By Mr R Clayton

Last week, R5 took on the East Coast (and survived to tell the tale!)

The fearless adventurers of R5 packed their bags, braved the long bus journey (complete with singalongs, snack swaps, and a few questionable hat choices), and set off for the wilds of the East Coast Adventure.

From the moment they arrived, it was action stations: paddle boarding on Carlingford Lough (with some paddling more than boarding…), banana boating (where the main aim appeared to be launching your friends into the sea), and pier jumping - because who wouldn’t want to leap into icy water on purpose?

The night line had children crawling blindfolded through the forest, guided only by a rope and the distant sound of Miss Ferguson giggling. There was a disco with dance moves that may never be repeated (for legal reasons), and a mountain climb that left everyone feeling ten feet taller - if not a little bit muddier.

Rock climbing and abseiling brought out hidden courage, and one or two dramatic cries of “I can’t do it!” swiftly followed by “That was AWESOME!” There were s’mores, stories, and soggy socks in abundance - but most of all, there was laughter, friendship, and the kind of memories that stick with you long after the bruises from banana boating have faded.

A huge shout-out goes to Miss Ferguson and Miss McDermott, whose boundless energy, good humour and patience (especially during bedtime routines) made the whole experience unforgettable. R5 returned tired, proud, and ever so slightly louder than before. Adventure: completed it.