Year 7 Camp: friendship, adventure & forever memories
24th September 26
Year 7 students enjoyed an unforgettable start to the school year at the annual Year 7 Camp – a much-loved tradition designed to help students forge friendships, develop confidence and settle into life in Upper School at The King Alfred School.
This year’s five-day trip took students to Cumulus Outdoors Residential Centre in Swanage, Dorset. There, students took part in a range of exciting activities, including coasteering, high ropes and archery.
The activities encouraged them to embrace new challenges, work together to solve problems, and step outside their comfort zones.
Tunnelling was a highlight for student Charles. “There were puzzles we had to solve and a code we needed to get out,” he shared.
Evenings were equally memorable, with students enjoying a silent disco filled with singing, dancing and laughter.
“The time we spent together was really nice”
With the year group made up of former Lower School students and new joiners, the camp provides a valuable opportunity for the year group to get to know one another. In the process, they build connections that will support them throughout their time in Year 7 and beyond.
As Charles put it, “The time we spent together was really nice. Before we went, we barely knew each other. Now we’re all good friends.”
Current Head of Year 7, Claire Murphy, said: “Camp is such an important part of the Year 7 experience. It gives students the chance to form new friendships, increase their independence and develop a real sense of belonging within the year group.
“It’s also a chance for the teachers to get to know each student individually so that we can support them fully during their Upper School journey.
“This year’s camp was a beautiful experience. It was wonderful to see students supporting one another, embracing new challenges and returning with greater confidence.”
Camp is a key part of both our Upper School co-curricular and Lower School co-curricular programmes, with students taking part in residential experiences every year from Year 4 onwards.
These opportunities help young people develop skills such as independence, collaboration and a sense of community that are central to a KAS education, while creating memories and friendships that last long after the trip’s end.
Take a look at more photos from this year’s Year 7 Camp below.
