Year 8 Enjoy Memorable Summer Adventure at Mendip Base Camp

On 24 June, 109 Year 8 students and 13 members of staff set off for Mendip Base Camp in Somerset for three days of outdoor adventure, teamwork and fun. Armed with plenty of water, suncream and enthusiasm, students embraced a packed programme of activities in some very warm weather.

The trip began with a variety of exciting challenges, including archery tag and Nerf competitions. The Nerf activities took place in a large, air-conditioned hangar, which quickly became a favourite location given the temperatures. Students also had the opportunity to try abseiling in the onsite quarry. It was wonderful to see so many pupils supporting and encouraging one another, particularly those who were nervous about tackling the heights.

Thursday morning took us to Base Camp’s water sports centre, where students enjoyed kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Many also welcomed the chance to cool off with regular dips in the water. One of the highlights was swimming downstream to a rope bridge crossing challenge, where participants had to make their way across without falling in. While success rates varied, there was certainly no shortage of laughter and determination.

The afternoon was spent in the woodland area, taking part in a range of team-building activities designed to develop communication, resilience and cooperation. Later that evening, activity leaders hosted a quiz competition, with students attempting to outscore the staff team. The music round proved particularly popular, with enthusiastic singing from both students and staff alike.

After a busy and enjoyable day, everyone was hoping for a restful night. However, an overnight weather warning for potential thunderstorms meant that tents had to be evacuated at around 1:00am as a precaution. Fortunately, the storm passed quickly, and students were soon able to return to their tents and catch up on some much-needed sleep. The way they handled the unexpected disruption was commendable and showed great maturity.

Following the final activities on Friday, the group enjoyed lunch before loading the coaches for the journey back to Nova. Unsurprisingly, both students and staff were feeling tired after three action-packed days.

The Base Camp activity leaders were highly complementary about the conduct and enthusiasm of our students throughout the trip. We are incredibly proud of the way they embraced every challenge, supported one another and remained positive despite the hot weather and the late-night storm evacuation.

The 2025 camping trip was a tremendous success, creating lasting memories and strengthening friendships. We are already looking forward to next year’s adventure—although a slightly cooler forecast would certainly be appreciated!