For not making DS go on this trip?

[Juicyfrooty]

DS is now approaching the end of year 10. The school is planning a 'gcse bootcamp' trip for all year 11 pupils at the start of term. The trip involves an overnight stay at an outdoor activity centre, revision sessions and team building activities and adventure courses.

DS does not want to go, he went on this kind of trip in primary school and hated it, he also has a game for a sport he plays on the Saturday morning (the trip is overnight on the friday) that he doesn't want to miss.

The school have called me and said the trip is very important for GCSE preparation and he should be attending.

I'm finding it hard to see just how much essential GCSE prep can be done in a less than 24 hour trip and am thinking if he doesn't want to go then it's no big deal.

I've only read OP's updates and she's defensive to those disagreeing with her. So why even post?

I wouldn't send him , I can totally emphasise with him that type of trip would be my idea of the worst kind of nightmare I could imagine , as an alternative get him to do extra school work at home

I agree that children sometimes have to be encouraged out of their comfort zone because we face all sorts of issues in adult life, however that doesn't mean they have to do everything that is suggested. I imagine the op's son knows what is beyond the pale for him and it would be cruel to force him. I must say I'd have hated such a trip - and wouldn't have gone!

I was in the same position as the op with my son many years ago and he's grown up absolutely fine, copes well with what life throws at him.

I wouldn't send him. He doesn't want to go and has a prior commitment. An adult wouldn't go in those circumstances.

Bollocks it's essential for GCSEs.