Find out how The Mead School’s exciting, world-expanding, Growing Up, Going Further programme starts in Year 3 to ensure that children are fully prepared for the independence of senior school life.
At The Mead, we believe in fostering confident, independent children, and our unique residential programme is key to this. Starting in Year 3, our children embark on a progressive journey of discovery, building maturity and broadening their horizons with each trip. Our unique residential programme, Growing Up, Going Further starts not just in Year 6, but is a tailored journey of independence and global awareness. This ensures our children are truly ready for secondary by Year 6.
Our Year 3s begin with a one-night bushcraft adventure. This initial experience focuses on building self-reliance in a safe environment, teaching basic survival skills and fostering an appreciation for nature. It’s a foundational step towards independence.
In Year 4, the residential expands to a two night stay packed with activities designed for teamwork and problem-solving. Children enjoy water sports like raft races, paddle boarding, and keel boating, alongside orienting, archery, and initiative exercises. These challenges build collaboration and resilience.
Our Year 5 trip takes learning abroad with a visit to St. Omer, France for a three night stay. This immersive experience helps pupils develop cultural awareness and practical language skills. Activities include town trails in Boulogne and St. Omer, visits to a traditional boulangerie, a chocolate workshop, St. Joseph’s Village, and even a snail farm. It’s a true taste of French life.
The pinnacle of our programme is the 4-night international trip to Switzerland for Year 6. The children fly abroad. In the stunning Alps, children engage in climbing, orienteering, hiking, environmental education and various sports. This trip cements their independence, global awareness and confidence.