LAST weekend an adventurous troop of S6 students and the courageous Senior Management Team from Earlston High School, along Miss Fleming from the Pastoral Team, set out on a leadership weekend of outdoor pursuits in Dumfries and Galloway.

Over the course of the weekend students were tested on their ability to work as a team, to lead and ultimately to enjoy themselves whilst aiming to win the challenges set by the instructors at Abernethy Barcaple.

After being split into teams, we were sent our separate ways for some light orienteering, traversing the assault course and building giant catapults fit for mediaeval battle. At first, the introductory challenges seemed easy, yet little did we know the almighty 24 hour challenge loomed ahead.

We were tasked with the responsibility of planning our individual itinerary for the next day, to gain points and put our communication skills to the test. The next morning we synchronised our watches, donned our wellies and began the 24 hour challenge, competing in events to win the ultimate prize: a Freddo!

We climbed trees, canoed lakes and cycled mountains as the points stacked up in their thousands. Mr Chapman swooped gracefully down the zip line, Mrs McDonald conquered her fear of heights through abseiling and Miss Fleming put her raft building skills to the test. Others tried their hand at archery and some endeavoured the mine fields.

For the less adventurous, there were challenges of balance, communication and brain power with Sudoku and treasure hunts (not to mention making cups of tea for the teachers for an extra 50 points).

Not only did we leave Barcaple with newly found skills in knot tying and stretcher making, after lessons from Nathaniel we left with a clearer understanding of what skills and qualities successful leaders and team players have. Thanks to this, we hope S6 students will work more effectively as leaders throughout the year for the benefit of the school.