School fields are normally reserved for sports days and break times, but last week, the grounds of Dame Janet Primary Academy in Ramsgate were transformed into a bustling campsite as Year 6 pupils took part in a special overnight camping experience.
The event, organised as part of the school’s enrichment curriculum, offered many of the students their very first taste of sleeping under canvas in the great outdoors.
The adventure began on Thursday afternoon when pupils traded their pens and notebooks for tent pegs and mallets.
Working in small teams, the children faced the ultimate test of communication and resilience: pitching their own tents. While a few poles were initially back-to-front, the field was soon transformed into a village of domes and tunnels.
The event carried a strict no-phones policy, forcing pupils to swap screen time for face-to-face connection.
“At first, I didn’t know what I’d do without my tablet,” said Year 6 pupil Leo. “But we played until it got dark, and I didn’t even think about it. It was way better.”
“This is the most fun I’ve had without my phone” said Year 6 pupil Ihsan.
As the sun began to set over Ramsgate, the focus shifted to a traditional gathering around the campfire, complete with songs, storytelling, and the mandatory roasting of marshmallows.
The event provided a brilliant experience for students just weeks before they graduate to secondary school.
