Activity Week is always a highlight of the Summer term at Abbey Gate College, and this year was no exception. From high ropes and hiking to filmmaking and forensics, our students embraced a wide range of opportunities designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and celebrate adventure.

Across five action-packed days, the entire Senior School was immersed in an enriching and ambitious programme that included:

• Four residential trips, with students spending a combined total ofnine nights away in the Lakes, Wales, and beyond.
• Eight exciting day tripsto locations including Chester Zoo, Manley Mere, Llandegla and the Alton Towers.
• Nine on-site activities, ranging from Film Academy to enterprise challenges, team-building sessions and creative projects.

In total, around 175 students took part in residentials alone, with every student from Year 7 to Year 10 involved in something new and rewarding.

Each year group had a tailor-made experience:

• Year 7 tested their mettle at Tawd Vale on a residential adventure packed with outdoor pursuits.
• Year 8 tackled Wise Up team-building challenges, created their own businesses on Enterprise Day, and explored the Anglesey coast.
• Year 9 spent part of their week on a residential in Stratford upon Avon, with stunning scenery and culture galore.
• Year 10 enjoyed a combination of careers-focused workshops, inspiring guest speakers, volunteering, and outward-bound adventures.

We were delighted to receive positive feedback from every year group. Here are just a few of the comments made by students following their exciting week,

“It was a great trip and all the teachers were really fun!”

“It was great, thanks for all the effort you put into it.”

“I enjoyed the range and level of challenge that the activities provided.”

“It was great, I had a great time working with my friends.”

“It was very exciting to work with a professional actor and director…… I would like to do more of this!”

“I enjoyed being creative and getting to know even more people in my year.”

“The Belgium trip is one of my highlights of school.”

Behind the scenes, none of this would be possible without the hard work and dedication of our staff. A huge thank you to all those who planned, led and supported activities throughout the week – especially our trip leaders, the fantastic Admin team for their endless chasing and coordination, our Catering team for producing what felt like a mountain of packed lunches, and our Site team for keeping the College minibuses running smoothly.

Activity Week 2025 reminded us once again how powerful experiential learning can be. Whether conquering a climbing wall or presenting a business pitch, our students lived out the College’s commitment to nurturing Personalised Excellence in every sense.