The P1 - P3 Sports Day is on tomorrow - starting at 9.15 am!

Come and enjoy the fun.

Final day in Valkenburg! The group woke to the sound of pouring rain this morning as they began their last day in Holland. Today saw the sightseers off to Agogo where the children enjoyed the breath-taking views from the chairlift, followed by the thrill of the roller coaster ride on the toboggan run. It was touch and go whether this would go ahead, as the toboggan cannot run in wet weather. Thankfully the rain stopped as the group arrived and began again as the final child zoomed down the slope....you’d almost think it was meant to be. Each child was able to choose his/her own speed with the brake, and slide down the mountain, where they then got the draglift back up to the starting point again. It was a slow start for many, with some children remaining stationary at times until they were given a gentle push downwards by their fellow classmates coming down the slope behind them. By the end of the morning, all children were flying down the metal slopes at great speeds. Mr Bradley described the toboggan as a baking tray with wheels.....I’m not convinced on that one but the children had a ball. Following their thrilling morning, the group went shopping. Lots of sweets, chocolates and presents were purchased today as the children tried to spend their remaining Euros. After lunch it was off to Kinderstadt Heerlen for yet more adrenalin inducing action! Kinderstadt, I am told, is like Indianaland times 10 – with dodgems, ball pits, a log flume, rollercoasters, trampolines and a giant rubber volcano. I am told that all children made it to the top in their bare feet, however the real challenge is trying to get to the top in their socks.....a few succeeded. The children had a super afternoon with only one downfall.....the soles of their feet are as black as can be. I am told that there will be a foot inspection this evening before bedtime.... rather them than me.  With an enormous appetite worked up, it was back to the hotel for a dinner of burgers. Following dinner the children then went to Laser quest in the darkness of the caves. It was boys v girls this evening with the boys winning both games. It’s a wonder the girls didn’t win with both Mr Bradley and Mr Pinkerton helping them out....maybe that was their problem. Sounds like yet another amazing day and a great end to a very successful trip! The hotel staff have been very welcoming to the children and couldn't do enough to ensure that they all feel at home and well looked after. The staff have also had continuous remarks on the impeccable manners and behaviour of the children everywhere they have been in Valkenburg. It's an early night tonight as 5 a.m. will come very early in the morning when all children will be made to shower (whether they want to or not) before departing the hotel after having breakfast and making their packed lunch for the airport. 

Congratulations to Mr. Bradley, Mr. Pinkerton, Mrs Galway and Mrs. Brown for making Valkenburg 2018 such an amazing experience for the P.7 children. Just one more sleep parents.....get those beds ready and their favourite meal prepared for dinner tomorrow night. 

Holland Day 4

Day 4: The children were up bright and breezy this morning for the 1½ hour journey to Europe’s largest Theme Park called ‘Efteling’. Efteling is a fantasy themed amusement park in Kaatsheuvel where all the attractions are based on elements from ancient myths and legends, fairy tales, fables and folklore. Needless to say, they all had an absolutely amazing time! Another bright and sunny day....perfect weather for exploring the theme park. Many of the children displayed amazing feats of bravery as they attempted rides on rollercoasters for the very first time! A lot of them stepped out of their comfort zone and all were willing to give the rides ‘a go’ and even enjoyed them. One of the rides many embarked on was the brand new roller coaster called ‘The Baron’, which incorporates a vertical drop! The children took a spin on The Teacups, The Flying Dutchman, The Python and The Pirate Ship (not one of my favourites). You’ll be pleased to know they tackled The Pirate Ship before they had their lunch of chicken, sausages and chips. The teachers weren’t too keen on seeing the lunches again. A firm favourite for all was The Piranha. I say for all, but maybe not for poor Mrs Galway, who was tricked into going on to it. You sit in a rubber ring and end up getting soaked as you plummet into the lake at the end. I think she’s finally forgiven the children….and Mr Bradley. Lots of photos of their experience were purchased along with souvenirs. After a thrilling day, it was back to the hotel for a late dinner of even more chips. The children embarked on a relaxing games night of cards and a Mr Bradley quiz. The children are being exceptionally well behaved (like we ever doubted that) and they are all sleeping well.....hopefully they'll do this when they return also! They are off to bed shortly following their diary writing for a good rest before hitting the chair lift tomorrow.