22nd November 2009

Despite our best intentions it has been too long since we blogged and whilst we can happily say this is because we have been very busy with all of us working hard and longer hours than we sometimes would like, that is because we all still passionately believe in what we do for our charity UK Youth here at Avon Tyrrell.

We have seen a number of schools come and go over the last few weeks and they have all been a pleasure to have to stay, as well as the youth groups and carer groups that have used our self catering lodges and activities.

Sadly the end of October saw the departure of our three GAP students, Kate, Cleo and Jenny who have been absolutely fabulous over the past year. They have been no trouble at all, well apart from..... and then of course there was the time when they..... Anyway all three have been great characters and we will really miss them, and of course we now await the arrival of our new Gappies in January who we are sure will equally be as good fun. Bye Bye Girls and Thank You from all of us.

Claire Moir and Duncan Coleman have been busying running our first group through our Forest School programme at Avon Tyrrell with fifteen 15 year 8 boys from Mountbatten school near Romsey. For the past few weeks as part of a 10 week programme funded by the Ernest Cook Trust they have visited every Wednesday morning and so far have participated in fire lighting, shelter building, knot tying, open fire cookery and basic knife work as well as developing their communication and team work within the group. Throughout the programme the group are taking on more responsibility and gaining independence in the tasks that they undertake. During the second half of the programme they will be continuing to develop these skills, with the aim of them being able to take the lead role in the planning and delivery of their sessions. We have some great opportunities for schools to participate in our Forest Schools so please contact Claire on 01425 672347 or email info@avontyrrell.org or visit the Avon Tyrrell website, http://www.avontyrrell.org.uk/

We have also held our first wedding reception in a very long time which began with the bride and groom arriving by zip wire. We hope to have some photo’s of this in the future as the weekend was a very unique event held in a very special place, and the feedback we received from all who attended was very positive indeed. We all wish Stefen and Becca a very happy and fun life together.

Finally, you often talk to her but not everyone gets to meet her, so for those of you out there who have asked who is Anne, please see below our very own Anne who works in the Customer Services Department.

To find out more about Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre and the many varied opportunities we offer please contact us by Tel; 01425 672347 or email info@ukyouth.org or view our website http://www.avontyrrell.org.uk/

Remember… experience – learn – develop