The Symonds Yat moneymaker!

 Year 10 took a long hop on the bus at the end of the week to visit Symonds Yat just after Ross on Wye. The school have used the campsite at Biblins several times and are very familiar with the rambling paths that meander along the steep banks leading down to the River Wye.

First stop was a drop down to the river’s edge where many people over time have entertained themselves with the mischievous practice of hammering coins into an old tree trunk, leaving enough proud to tempt willing/gullible people to try and prise them from the grip of the old wood. 

I have never seen such a determined effort for such a minimal reward. Everyone had a go at trying to make their “meagre” fortune and much mirth was had by those watching the futile attempts. 

After a hefty push by some up the steep bank flanking the river, and a steady trundle up the path by the rest of the group, they both came to the cave entrances on the top of the hill.  

After the group was outlined with a very specific safety briefing, they made their way down a narrow cleft in the rock which opened up into a wide, natural amphitheatre. All the pupils were in awe of what they saw in front of them. Vast, cavernous openings which gaped widely. 

The pupils were allowed to take a few pictures at the entrances. I explained to them all that even though the setting seemed overwhelmingly "awesome" that there were many dangers exploring a place such as this, leaving them with the firm understanding that it was not an environment to be taken on without professional guidance, the correct equipment and a great deal of respect.