Monday 30th June
We arrived in Alban Roe House in anticipation of the coming week. Having made up the beds, we greeted the students from the Shepherd School as they arrived, Fr. Edwin with his robe inadvertedly trapped in his car door much to everyone’s amusement. After the students had settled in, we had lunch and spent some time getting to know one another playing some games. Fortunately, the sun was out and the weather was warm. We cooled down with a swim in the pool at the St Alban’s Centre which everyone enjoyed. After some more free time, we walked to Windmill Hill for a barbeque and karaoke which was especially enjoyed by Andrew and Lizzie; we may have some rising stars! Penny and Fareena dominated the dance floor but everyone got a chance to dance! After a long day we were all fairly lethargic as we traipsed back to Alban Roe to settle down for bed. Overall, it was a very successful first day with many new friendships being formed.
Tuesday 1st July
This morning we went to breakfast after which we traversed to Flamingoland, having enjoyed some free time. We were very lucky to have sunny weather – thankfully we were all reminded multiple times by Fr. Edwin to apply some sun cream. We had several hours to enjoy the rides, some like Jacqui on the scariest roller coasters, while others preferred to stick to calmer rides. We all had a laugh as Miss Mulligan was persuaded to brave the ‘Flip Flop’ having been assured it was very ‘relaxing’! After a tiring but fabulous time, we all travelled back on the coach, we had left immaculate having been threatened by Fr. Edwin with the ‘CIS’! After several hours free time to enjoy the good weather, we settled down for bed. Jamie Maw wanted a feature.
Wednesday 2nd July
Today began with some time to relax after breakfast. After this time in which many of us took the opportunity to write postcards and draw some pictures, we went for a quick swim. In the afternoon, we took a coach to York for a chilly boat ride followed by some free time. Some used this time for shopping, others for a walk around York to see the sights, or a quick visit to the Art Gallery. In the evening, we went to eat at an ‘All-you-can-eat’ Chinese restaurant – some took this very literally and even saw it as a challenge! Most notable perhaps were Thomas with two mountains of food, and Sean eating his way through a rather difficult plate. We wound down back at Alban Roe with some football, dancing and chat. Our main conclusion of the day was that Fr. Edwin needs to go on a diet after his chair leg spontaneously bent and broke under his weight, with the result of showering his wine over some of us innocent bystanders.
Thursday 3rd July
After breakfast we set off for Castleford where we went bowling which everyone enjoyed immensely. Following lunch, we departed for perhaps one of the biggest excitements of the week – Diggerland. Here, we go to actually drive JCBs as well as go on theme park style rides made from JCBs. A memorable ride in particular was Spin Dizzy on which one group got stuck in the rain for a while as one of the controls was jammed. Everyone had a fantastic time there, particularly Ahmed who spent nearly half an hour digging one hole. Since the sunny weather had unfortunately broken into pouring rain, we rushed inside to find Miss Mulligan, Harry and Andrew enjoying the massage chairs. So we made an early departure back to Alban Roe to get ready for our party at Windmill. The boys smartened up, and the girls enjoyed being pampered, especially Victoria and Penny who were determined to impress Rory and Mike. The barbeque and karaoke were a huge success for our last night, the singing led by Danielle but thoroughly enjoyed by all. However, Ahmed managed to break three of his “Queens’” hearts in one evening!
Friday 4th July
We spent most of the morning tidying up Alban Roe and packing to leave, with which Jenny kept everyone organised, before a quick dip in the pool at SAC. We were surprised to see Jennifer storming down the pool faster than on land! We had more free time before Mass with the community in the Abbey Church at which every Shepherd School student received a medal from Fr. Gabriel. Everyone seemed very pleased with this! We then went to lunch and then back to the house for the Shepherd School’s departure. Everyone was upset to leave and there were tears here and there, but they eventually had to leave with Jamie blowing kisses behind him.
Overall, we had an amazing time and formed some great new friendships which are certain to last a long time. As a final note, if anyone sees Frank, could they please let Thomas know.
By Sian Thomas and Klementyna Zastawniak