Today, some lucky children in Year 6 were able to visit Haggerston Park with Mr Downs and Miss Begum to practise their skills on BMX bikes.

As we arrived, the heavens opened but that didn’t deter the children from strapping on their safety equipment and practising riding standing up straight on their bikes.

Over half an hour, most children improved their balance and poise on the bikes and were able to make corners safely and move on to the actual track.

With excitement, the children began to ride around the tracks and try out different hills and jumps – there were a few tumbles, but no real accidents to speak of! Everybody kept trying and began to be more confident going up and down the steep inclines, it was a real pleasure to watch! No wheelies, tailwhips or stunts as yet, but you never know what might happen with practise!

We all had a great time, perhaps some of our bikers and other members of the school might like to try the BMX club which runs on a Sunday at Haggerston Park?

On Monday 6th June, Turtles and Meerkats made their long-anticipated trip to Southend-on-Sea!

Having looked forward to this reward for 9 months, the weather certainly didn’t disappoint the children! With the sunshine raining down on them and a cool breeze on their backs, the children set off to Liverpool Street Station at 8.45 a.m.

The children were able to witness London transform into the beautiful English countryside as the train ploughed a path towards Southend. On arrival, children chattered excitedly as we walked down the main high street – suddenly we could see the sea!

Unfortunately, there was a bit of a wait once we got into the park, however everyone was very well-behaved and members of the public said (more than once!) how well-mannered and polite our children are. What a credit to Thomas Buxton!

Then, the serious business – the rides.

Dragon’s claw. Rage. The Haunted House. Green Scream. There were almost too many to choose from but somehow, the children managed.  In groups they explored Adventure Island and dragged (the somewhat apprehensive) adults on with them. A special mention to those children who tried rides they were petrified of, screamed their heads off, but were then rewarded with a rush of endorphins and a sense of self-satisfaction!

Lunch was a pleasant affair on the benches and then there was just enough time to visit the gift shop and then a rush to the train back to school! The train journey was MUCH quieter on the way back, several children allowing themselves to drop off to sleep. Others however, plagued the teachers by spraying bubbles that just would not pop! Not to mention the sweet-stuffing competitions!

In summary, a marvellous day was had by one and all! Can we do it again next week?