A group of Year 10 and 11 students spent an unforgettable week at Ogwen Cottage Outward Bound Centre, taking on mountains, gorges, leadership challenges and plenty of personal growth along the way. Here’s a run-down of the week’s highlights…
MONDAY | Settling In & Starting Strong
The group arrived early afternoon and settled into rooms before diving straight into the traditional “jog and dip” to kick off the adventure. Mr Mallinson’s group began expedition prep and explored leadership and followership, while Miss McCamish’s groups tackled activities focused on leadership styles. The evening wrapped with dinner, Year 11 revision, and some well-earned downtime.
TUESDAY | Expedition Begins
After an early start and room inspection, Mr Mallinson’s group set off on their two-day mountain expedition, summiting Glyder Fach (994m) and Glyder Fawr (1000m+) before descending to a wild camp at Llyn y Cwn. Miss McCamish’s group spent the day gorge walking, then rock climbing and abseiling in the sunshine before preparing for their own expedition.
WEDNESDAY | Peaks, Winds & Determination
Day two of the expedition saw Mr Mallinson’s group climb Y Garn (947m) in strong winds, adapt their route on the descent, and finish with an abseil back at the centre. Meanwhile, Miss McCamish’s group began their mountain expedition up Carnedd Moel Siabod (872m), battling high winds but rewarded with stunning views and a peaceful lakeside camp.
THURSDAY | Sunshine, Scrambles & Resilience
Back at the centre, students tackled the Afon Ddu gorge walk and an afternoon mountain scramble before reuniting with the returning expedition group. Miss McCamish’s team completed a second day of hiking, covering multiple peaks in glorious sunshine. Spirits stayed high despite tired legs — with one memorable “Vicar of Dibley” moment when Alfie disappeared chest deep into a puddle. The group finished with ice creams and a well-earned rest.
FRIDAY | Final Challenge
Before heading home, students cleaned the centre and returned kit, then completed a final rock scramble at Capel Curig, navigating and leading each other safely to the summit and back.
These experiences will remain with students well beyond the week itself, shaping their confidence and teamwork as they overcame demanding challenges together.
