Samworth Church Academy’s Summer Experience (SCASE), a two-week extravaganza of learning and sports for local children has been hailed as a success.

One family said that their son had been ‘positively transformed’ by the experience which is designed to ease the transition for children from their junior school to an upper school environment.

The Summer Experience delivered literacy and numeracy classes, sports activities, art and drama, as well as a variety of exciting trips. The outings included a trip to Drayton Manor Park, Twycross Zoo, Magna Science Adventure Centre and Nottingham Castle during their Great War Exhibition. There was also a visit from falconers ‘Hawks of Steele’ who brought along birds of prey to show the group of about 40 children.

Joshua Bonsall, a year 8 student at the Academy who participated last year, acted as a mentor this time around. “I enjoyed helping the year 6 students through the activities. I think it helps them to be less worried about coming to an upper school”.

One student, Trinity Rees age 11 years, is moving from Asquith Primary School to Samworth Church Academy in September and agreed with Joshua. “I would recommend it because it will help us in September. My favourite thing and the most exciting, was when I conquered my fear of heights on the high ropes.”

Liam Birks attended the ‘Summer Experience’ and his family say that he has already grown in confidence with the new challenges. “Prior to coming here my son certainly had a lack of confidence but he has been really looking forward to coming here every single day. Every day has been a new experience for him and it has kept him entertained and engaged. He has already made new friends that will be at the Academy in September and now knows staff well enough to speak to them with ease.”

Mr Birks says that he and his family have noticed that Liam is more confident about attending the Academy in September.

“He had no confidence with adults prior to coming here. The staff have put 100% in to this and for what they have achieved with my child in two weeks I can only wonder what the opportunities will be like in coming years. We are indebted to them already and are looking forward to the future knowing Liam has the support he needs.”

The two weeks of activities ended on Friday when all of the children performed in front of an audience of friends and family with a dance and drama show.