The trip was part of a partnership between the school and the Lions Club of Sidmouth, which has set up a legacy fund for hardworking pupils.

Sidmouth College pupils enjoyed a day of teambuilding, leadership skills, and fun activities as part of a legacy project set up by the Lions Club.

The club launched its Sidmouth College Annual Pledge earlier this year to reward hardworking students and donated money to take 47 pupils to Haven Banks Outdoor Activities Centre in Exeter.

In the morning, pupils tried their hand at archery and built rafts before competing in Dragon Boat races down the River Exe in the afternoon.

Year nine pupil Will Bond said: “Raft building was full of excitement and lots of getting wet as many rafts seemed as if they were about to sink. Dragon boat racing was all about speed and gliding through the water to win the races.

“Both these team building activities allowed us to mix with others in the year group and apply the learning habits, which were very useful throughout the day as both activities were challenging.”

The pledge was set up by the club to celebrate 40 years of community service by the club and mark the 100th anniversary of Lions Clubs International formation in 1917.

Alan Shoesmith, Lions Club president, called the day ‘a huge success’.

He said: “It was gratifying that our inaugural donation of £1,070 provided such a great enrichment experience for the 47 participating students.”

Headteacher James Ingham-Hill said it was a ‘privilege’ to work on the project and that the students had an excellent day.

He added: “My thanks go to the Lions for providing our students with a fantastic opportunity. It has been a privilege to work alongside them and create a legacy project that will have a positive impact on so many Sidmouth College students over the next few years. It was great to see students challenged outside of their comfort zone.

“The day focused around our students using learning habits to enable them to be successful within the selected activities. I am already hearing Year 8 students excited at the prospect of being involved next year.”