Bourne Abbey Church of England Primary Academy

Striving For Excellence, Caring For All In a Loving And Caring Christian Environment.

        Year 6 Whitby Residential: Fossils, Fun, and a Feast of Chips!

        Author: Helen Fleming

        From October 29th to November 1st, our Year 6 adventurers made Whitby their home, packing in plenty of laughter, learning, beautiful sunshine and some unforgettable seaside treats! 

        Staying at the YHA Whitby, our students got right into action with fossil hunting at Saltwick Bay and Tate Hill Sands. Armed with spades and sharp eyes, they dug through rock and sand, triumphantly unearthing “ancient treasures” (and a few pebbles disguised as fossils!). Each child returned with pockets full of their prized finds—and just a bit of sand to keep as a souvenir. 

        The excitement continued with jet polishing, where students buffed their own pieces of Whitby’s famous gemstone to take home. Next up was a visit to the Lifeboat Museum and Lifeboat Station, where they heard inspiring tales of bravery that left everyone in awe (and a few planning future careers on cruise ships). The final adventure took them up the famous steps to Whitby Abbey for a dash of history and spectacular views. 

        A key highlight? The chip feast that awaited them after a long day of exploring! Nothing recharges young fossil hunters like a good old-fashioned chip supper by the sea, complete with views of Whitby’s coastline. Chips were savoured, shared, and some even debated the “correct” amount of vinegar and salt for that true seaside experience! 

        But the grand finale came on the last day with a ride on the Big Yellow Boat! Cheers erupted as they set off on the open water, with waves splashing and laughter carrying across the sea. This big, bright vessel was the perfect ending to an action-packed week, and every student returned with tales of “life at sea”—a fitting way to wrap up our wonderful Whitby adventure. 

        It was a fantastic few days filled with fossil treasures, laughter, and—of course—a healthy dose of sunshine. We hope you’re enjoying all the Whitby stories and have maybe spotted a few “souvenir fossils” tucked away at home. 

         

        Check out more posts by Bourne Abbey Church of England Primary Academy:

        Year 6 Speaks Up!

        Wake Up Wednesday: Top Tips for Safety Over the Festive Period

        Our Peterborough Museum Roman Experience