The boys quickly noticed the key differences between Oxford and Malvern, notably that the latter has a lot more hills. Before activities could begin, the boys learnt the vital skill of making their own beds (CB was indispensable in helping with pillowcases and duvet covers). Looking rather like red jelly babies in their activity clothing, the boys quickly got on with their outdoor pursuits: archery, low ropes, problem solving and a night (early evening!) walk to the top of one of the hills. The view from the top was spectacular. The following day featured, after some pancakes and cereal, the zip wire, bushcraft activities, the ‘king swing’ and the quad pole. If that wasn’t enough to tire the boys out, they also got to take part in a kind of treasure hunt called ‘Bird O’ and a high bridge course. After reflecting with our instructors on all the boys had learnt during their activities, we headed back to NCS - more confident in our abilities and less daunted by new challenges. DR