On 16th September, the current Fourth Years set out on an
adventure to Kippure in Co. Wicklow. Here is a synopsis of the events and
activities experienced by Transition Year students.
One of the first activities at Kippure was Archery. We had an
experienced instructor, Cormack, who taught us the techniques to achieve a
perfect bullseye. The bows were long and heavy and they were hard to hit, but
after a few attempts it became more enjoyable and achievable.
Rock climbing was a challenge for most. The walls had few aids and to
fully complete the climbing task you had to touch a beam at the very top. It
was an exciting activity but became difficult task for those with a fear of
heights! Each team controlled the individual team member’s ropes, so essentially,
your life was in their hands. Thankfully we all made it back down alive.
Next, we attempted Abseiling. This activity required us to slide down a
wall while attached to a rope controlled by individual team members. Our
instructor, Kieran, cracked jokes about death that didn't settle us at all but
when it came to abseiling down, he made sure it was an enjoyable (but safe)
experience.
Have you ever looked up a streetlight and thought; ‘Golly, I’d love to
climb that.’Our next task required us to do just that. We had to climb up a tall
pole with wedges to pull ourselves up with. Clinging on to each other for dear
life we maneuvered ourselves around the tiny platform (at the top of the pole)
until we were told to slowly lean back while holding hands and then hop off the
platform so we could get down.
Night Orienteering was an exciting part of the trip as we searched for
hidden markings throughout the fields and woods. Team 9 won the first night and
‘The Jelly Beans’ won the second night. It was a fun experience where each
group bonded and developed their skills in the form of teamwork.
Kayaking was one of the more popular activities on our trip. We kayaked
in Poulaphouca Reservoir. Mr. Brennan and Mr. Cox joined us and provided a lot
of fun by capsizing our kayaks and splashing us in the water. We were in groups
of two and we had to kayak around the Reservoir with the aid of some
instructors.
After that we attempted the high beams. Most flew across the high
balance beam like expert gymnasts! A select few, staggered across instead! Once
we had finished with the beam it was off to the Jacob’s ladder. Some students practically
flew up to the top, while others hung onto the second log like a sloth! The high
ropes were hilarious and great fun
On our last night the teachers gave us a list of props and words to make
a “skit” with our house. Each house was extremely entertaining and in the end
house 2 won, receiving a €20 prize to share among the group. Dagmara Dobkowska
won best actress and also received her own prize of €5. To top off the night, Ms.
Ferris accompanied by some students, played their guitars and we sang along. It
is fair to say that each task helped us to grow closer as a Year Group!
On behalf of Transition Year, we would like to sincerely thank our dedicated
teachers (Ms. Ferris, Ms. Magliocco, Ms. O’Reilly, Mr. Brennan, Ms. Hunt and
Mr. Cox) who planned and supervised this unforgettable trip.
