Early in June, sixty-year-six children and staff from Herne View Church of England Primary School enjoyed a three-day residential in Bristol.

They explored Bristol and learned using Bristol’s Harbourside as a base. Andrew Whitfield, assistant head said: "For many it was their first experience of staying away from home and each and every child rose to the occasion admirably."

Students 'threw' themselves into the learning opportunities provided and enjoyed the experience of staying with their friends while visiting. 

On day one, they visited Noah’s Ark Zoo and Farm where we were introduced to several animals that had specific adaptations to suit their habitats. Some children even held these creatures. After the workshop, they toured the zoo and discover up close so many different animals.

They then entered Bristol and had time to settle in their rooms and look forward to the evening of delicious food and competitive quizzing.

The next morning, they visited Harbourside themed day which started at Bristol aquarium. Students learned a lot about the animals on display. After feeding the fish and learning how students can protect and care for the aquatic world, they visited the gift shop visit before we had lunch in Millenium Square.

Mr Whitfield added: "All 67 of us boarded the boat, named the Tower Belle and we had an informative tour of the Harbourside learning about the rerouting of the river Avon and the pirates who used to lurk amongst the inlets and quays of the Harbour stashing their treasures and contraband – this included the infamous Blackbeard himself.

"After waving at almost every passerby and enjoying some beautiful views of the city we were dropped off outside our youth hostel for the most intense part of the trip – the tidiest room competition.

"Each room was a credit to the pupils who kept them so immaculate, though now there really is no excuse when asked to go and tidy your room.

"After a good-natured and hard-fought competition (well done room 302!)." Students visited Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s iconic SS Great Britain.

With two museums, the opportunity to go underneath the hull of the boat to the dry dock floor and the many floors of the 19th Century Ship.

On day three, was a tour around the M-Shed a museum on the Wharf Quayside which tells of the story of Bristol, its people and the impact they have had through the ages, the history of the slave trade, the Bristol Bus Boycott and Aardman Animations.

Andrew Whitfield, assistant head said: "The children engaged with the trip in an exemplary manner, and it was a real pleasure to see just how enthralled our pupils were with all the learning opportunities they engaged with, all whilst having three days of fun with their friends and teachers. I wish to take this opportunity to thank the staff, pupils and families who made such a wonderful trip so possible. I look forward to the Zookeepers, conservationists and Aquarists of the future, here’s to Bristol 2025."