Porthpean 2009

Every year in their first half term at Callington Community College, all of our year 7 students spend three days at the Porthpean Outdoor Activity Centre near St Austell.  This gives the youngsters, who join the College from 27 different primary schools, an opportunity to join their new group and their tutors in a range of interesting and challenging activities.

"Once again this year the sun shone and the week was a great success!  Many thanks to all involved."

Miss A Williams (Director of School Specialisms and School Self Evaluation) 

The residential experience is part of the transition programme at Callington.  The purpose is for the students to get to know their tutors and other students through the activities offered.  Porthpean week is an essential part of life at Callington Community College in Year 7, as experiences and friendships stay with the students throughout their time at the College.

Activities are divided into four themes. "Narratives of the World" is explored during a visit to the historical nineteenth century harbour village of Charlestown.  A range of water sports, including canoeing and kayaking are offered to allow the students to explore "The Self".  "The Environment" is experienced and examined on coastal path walks.  A variety of beach activities, such as rock pooling and sand sculpture, give the youngsters "A Sense of Place". 

In the evenings, College staff organise activities.  This year these included rocket making and launching, team building and a quiz.

In addition this year, Porthpean was supported by 16 Outdoor Education BTEC leaders from Year 11.  Each leader adopted a tutor group, encouraging, supporting and organising activities at the campsite.  These students were excellent role models for the Year 7 youngsters and were a credit to themselves. 

Our thanks go also to Dave Barratt of Tamar View Fruiterers, who supported "healthy lifestyles" by providing free fruit for the students all week.

For some Year 7 students this may be the first time they have been away from home without their parents.  All of them find something to interest and excite them at Porthpean, and they return to College with increased confidence and a sense of belonging.