Year 8 students from Lancaster Girls’ Grammar School recently swapped classrooms for canoes, high ropes, and woodland trails during their summer residential at YMCA Lakeside.
Set in 100 acres of woodland on the edge of Lake Windermere, YMCA Lakeside offers young people unrivalled opportunities to challenge themselves in both land and water-based activities. Over three days, pupils immersed themselves in outdoor learning designed to build confidence, resilience, and independence – all while working together as a team.
Every challenge encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones. One pupil reflected on conquering the ropes course: “It was quite intimidating at first and it feels like you are a lot higher than you are. But it was really fun and a sigh of relief came out at the end!”
Teachers praised the impact of the experience, highlighting not only the fun but also the wider benefits: “There’s many, many girls here who have benefitted from this trip, especially in a teamwork situation. At the moment, there’s a lot of pressure with exam stress. Being away from that and being in this environment is absolutely fantastic. It’s blown them away.”
The residential emphasised more than just adventure. It provided students with space to connect with nature, discover new strengths, and form stronger friendships. For many, the memories – and the lessons learned – will last well beyond their time at Lakeside.