On Monday and Tuesday this week,  our Lower Sixth students attended a wellbeing festival designed to help them unwind after their exams and recharge ahead of a busy half term.

Held at Layer Marney Tower  near Colchester, the group had exclusive access to the estate. As well as exploring the peaceful grounds, students climbed the Tudor tower and enjoyed views across the surrounding countryside. The setting, with its historic buildings and open green space, offered a calm and refreshing change of pace.

Sukhpreet (Lower Sixth) reflected: “The Wellbeing Festival was such a fun and exciting trip for all of us and was a much needed respite after the stress of our exams. The fun began the moment we stepped off the bus thanks to the welcome from Mrs Lonsdale and Mrs Woolley, and carried on throughout the whole trip. On the first day we had a great time partaking in a multitude of creative activities such as henna, face glitter and customising t-shirts. The great weather added to the relaxing atmosphere as we were able to chat and play games outside with each other on the beautiful grounds of the venue. The highlight of the trip was the silent disco where we all had an amazing time singing and dancing, and the lights and accessories amplified the fun. The second day was also great, as we got to shop and explore Cambridge before heading back home. Overall, the trip was an incredible experience in which we got to relax and make memories which definitely increased our wellbeing.”

Aoife and Ava added: “The Wellbeing Festival has been a highlight of our year. It has really helped us let go of exam stress and focus on our achievements and positive mindset after a busy few weeks. The teachers did a really good job of ensuring we were having a great time and organising loads of fun activities to take part in throughout the experience. This involved decorating t-shirts, sound baths, face glitter, endless amounts of ice cream and a crazy silent disco to end the night. Not only this, but the beautiful grounds allowed us to enjoy the fresh air and the history of the tower was absolutely fascinating. The next day allowed us to roam free around Cambridge, for sight seeing and retail therapy. This whole experience really emphasises the care that the Sixth Form pastoral team have for us as students as it was obvious how much time and effort was put in to allow us to properly enjoy and make the most out of the two days. We are endlessly grateful that the teachers organised this for us and we would definitely recommend the trip for future Lower Sixth students.”