Isle of Wight -Day 4

The hours have passed like a whirl wind and here we are on our final night at the Corner House Hotel. Today was brilliant and as teachers we can officially announce 'MISSION ACCOMPLISHED' with all children fast asleep by 9:15pm!

The day started with our penultimate breakfast (with clean children) before we headed off to visit Model Village. The children enjoyed looking at the detail of each building and person. The football match and chine scene were particular popular. After yet another gift shop experience we headed off to 'Owl & Monkey Haven'. As we departed we realised we had some time to spare so Dave, our wonderful, fabulous, amazing (occasionally horn-beeping) driver took us to an adventure playground. Here, children were able to swing, jump, spin and run to their hearts content! Turns out that was only three or four minutes as slowly, child after child resorted to basking in the sunshine!

Back en route and finally we arrived at the haven. A spot of lunch and we were ready to explore all varieties of monkeys (and owls). Fortunately, we were not forced to do this alone. A wonderfully informed guide named Harvey (or Marvin as Mrs Pape introduced him) was on hand to share funny tales and anecdotes regarding each monkey (and owl).



After we were led in to the education room, it was wonderful to see the children enjoying a worksheet! Although some clearly had forgotten how to hold a pencil! We were told Harvey (a.k.a Marvin) would be back with a surprise, leaving us in the capable hands of Miranda. On Harvey's (a.k.a Marvin's) return children were thrilled to meet a Ketch, a European Eagle Owl. All children were able  to stroke the owl, as Mr Ball asked each child how the owl felt. Each child could confidently declare that the owl was most certainly...'soft'. Inspired words you might say!

It is important to make clear how enjoyable this part of our trip had been. The stories, primates (and owls)  combined to provide children with an unforgettable experience. So much so that we are delighted to announce that as a class we are now the adopted parents of a young Rhesus Macaque called Minka.

After an action-packed day a far quieter coach ride led us back to the hotel! Children had an hour and a half to relax, play games, read and begin to pack up some of their clothes. After our final dinner it was time to get ready for the disco. Make-up applied, hair tussled and dresses on. The boys were ready! (No! We are not joking!) 7:30 soon approached and children were dancing, singing and waving their hands like the lunatics they most definitely are! By 9 o'clock, we were all truly exhausted and ready for bed.

That brings us up to now. Just Mr Ball and Mrs Pape remain. This week has been so hectic we hardly feel like we've had any time to reflect on what a wonderful experience the trip has been for all. It's fantastic to see the close relationships that have been built.

Tomorrow is our final day and in some ways it will be sad to leave (Note: SOME ways!) If possible we will be blogging tomorrow but at a far earlier time. Thank you for all the comments from the past few days, we have ALL enjoyed them, with the exception of any sly Everton digs!