BIOASIS TRIP
Year 8 ’ s spirits were high as we all boarded the bus to our secret Bioasis location . We had said goodbye to our electronics , as we embarked on a trip intended to rewild us and kick-start a more sustainable relationship with nature , but our friends were there to keep us occupied .
The Bioasis is 1200 acres of rugged coastline , salt marshes , ancient woodland and sparkling rivers in the West Country , offering students an opportunity to reconnect with nature , learn simple ways to rewild our planet and gain a passion for adventure , teamwork , conservation and the natural world .
We arrived at the ‘ classified ’ location – the middle of nowhere ! As we started walking towards the first of our three campsites , we took in the wonderful natural landscape . After a hike in the rain – we ( almost !) all remembered our waterproofs – we arrived at our first base . We all enjoyed an amazing vegetarian curry , solved riddles and spent our first night in large tents .
Bright and early on Monday morning , we packed our bags and set off to go canoeing . We made it to our lunch spot with minimal capsizing and then carried on along the river looking for hidden treasure . As the river narrowed it became harder to canoe as the water was so shallow . People began leaving their boats to push , and some even lost shoes in the deep sticky mud . Eventually we made it to our second night ’ s campsite , where we were grateful for a shower , and then , trained in Morse code , we used our torches to contact the next group .
On the last full day , we tried archery and learned how to set animal traps before trekking towards our remotest campsite yet . After a very steep uphill climb and some scenic views , we finally saw the camp appear through the trees . The tents were small but cosy , and we enjoyed sitting around the campfire ; sharing hot chocolate and marshmallows were some of our best moments from the trip .
None of the adventures would have been possible without the amazing kindness and support of all the teachers who came with us . Thank you all so much for an unforgettable week , with particular thanks to Mrs Stuart for spending her last week of term ever under canvas with us !
Chloe Walmsley , Year 8
SEVENOAKS SCHOOL 2021-2022 105