The weather is never the problem, it’s often the solution

At Conway Centres, they welcome thousands of young people each year, there is no better start to the trip than a bit of bad weather! As the rain pours; the quiet student, the confident student or the class joker slowly wash away, and you are left with the real young people…

Here is what they see at Conway Centres…

Unexpected leadership

At Conway Centres, they see and experience firsthand how the young people who get off that coach are not the ones who get back on it to go home.

The confident child in the classroom may not be the young person jumping from the private dock into the Menai Strait, the quiet student becomes the one encouraging their peers and the anxious student in class could be the one thriving in the outdoors – these moments in challenging weather help young people discover their own qualities and strengths in themselves, as well as in each other.

Teamwork becomes essential

The rain, wind and mud naturally create situations where teamwork becomes essential.

Young people could be navigating the Menai Strait together in the rain or walking a mountain on a windy day but in those shared experience and challenges (and slight discomfort!) that is when they become a group and unite. The teamwork builds connections and boosts friendship, leading to a more positive experience in school.

Weather builds on skills

In tougher weather conditions, young people build on essential skills that help them in all aspects of their lives. Whether it is problem-solving to figure out how to get the raft to float, boosting confidence by tackling the high-ropes or by pushing through challenging weather conditions and continuing when things don’t go to plan – most of this valuable learning takes place beyond their comfort zone.

The adaptability and resilience they take away, equips them with skills that extend far behind their residential trip. Plus, there was once a saying that if you can navigate the Menai Strait you can navigate the world.

Teachers often mention they learn a lot about their students, plus vice versa!

Out on an adventure, teachers often say they learn about their classes on a more personal level. Seeing strengths and qualities that may not always shine through in the classroom which helps support learning and development back in the classroom. And young people? They see their teachers in a completely different light.

They see their human side, building stronger relationships and trust, which young people often say supports them for the rest of the academic year.

The “worst” weather creates the best memories

Ask any young person what they remember most from a trip and it’s rarely the sunny days. It’s the unpredictable weather, the shared laughter as they got soaked, the excitement of completing an activity despite the conditions.

These are the stories they retell for years…