Year 5 Make Lasting Memories at Dukes Barn

Last week, 28 excited Year 5 children and five staff members set off for a residential adventure at Dukes Barn Centre in Beeley, part of the beautiful Chatsworth Estate, which looked glorious under clear blue skies and warm sunshine.

After unpacking our bags and tackling the tricky job of making our own beds, (a challenge in itself for many!), we ate our packed lunches before heading off to our first activity.

That evening, after a lovely meal, we set out with our head torches for a night walk across Stanton Moor in search of the famous Nine Ladies stone circle. Along the way we enjoyed spooky stories, some star-gazing, and fascinating facts about fungi. Excitement rose when we spotted what could have been a witch on a broomstick – although perhaps it was just a lady with a walking stick!

The children were split into three groups – the Badgers, the Foxes, and the Owls – and over the course of the trip, everyone had the chance to try a wide range of fun activities.

• Rock Climbing indoors at the centre gave us the chance to learn new techniques, including traversing and scaling walls.
• On the Low Ropes Course, we tested our teamwork, communication, and cooperation as we worked together to complete the challenges. Many children shone as natural leaders, while others impressed with their encouragement and support.

• Caving was a highlight, with trips into Giant’s Hole near Castleton and Devonshire Mine near Matlock Bath, which gave the children an idea of what it was like working in a mine.  Everyone wore helmets with head torches and were excited to extinguish their lights when in the middle of the cave network!  They walked through waterfalls and saw many different rock formations.
• Stream Scrambling involved making our way up a very rocky and often deep stream, crawling under logs, immersing ourselves in the water. We climbed mini waterfalls and ended by sliding down a water slide. We definitely needed the hot chocolate at the end of the very wet activity!
• Abseiling off an 80ft bridge into the valley below was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating for the children. Every child showed immense courage and resilience, and the sense of achievement at the bottom was unforgettable.

• Weaseling at Higger Tor or Robin Hood Stride challenged us to climb over huge boulders and squeeze through narrow gaps. Team challenges kept us working together, laughing, and cheering one another on.
• Canoeing on the Chatsworth reservoir gave us the chance to paddle in teams, race, and even take part in water fights and games. Many children bravely jumped in at the end – the perfect way to cool off after a sunny morning on the water.

Evenings at the centre were just as special. After delicious meals, we enjoyed relaxing in the common room and games room, chatting and laughing in our dorms, and roasting marshmallows around the fire. The food was plentiful and tasty, the beds were comfortable, and the atmosphere was full of fun and friendship.

The Dukes Barn trip was an unforgettable experience for everyone. Whether it was clambering up a rock face, scrambling through streams, or simply chatting with friends under the stars, every child had the chance to push themselves, discover new strengths and make lasting memories.