Primary school pupils braved the cold weather and showed off skills in finding their way at an annual festival in Weymouth.

One hundred and sixty Year 5 pupils from a host of primary schools, including Radipole, St Nicholas and St Laurence, Bincombe Valley, St Johns and St Andrew’s headed to The Wey Valley School for the annual Big Orienteering Festival.

The pupils spent the day with student leaders and staff putting their skills to the test in a fun orienteering competition.

Orienteering is a challenging outdoor sport which involves participants using a map and compass to find specific points in the landscape.

Despite the weather being bitterly cold on the day, pupils still managed to thoroughly enjoy the competition, navigating the campus grounds.

The primary pupils were supported and guided during the event by Wey Valley’s very own Year 9 outdoor adventure leaders.

Mark Salmon, PE teacher and lead for outdoor education at The Wey Valley School praised all the pupils who took part for their endeavour and team work under challenging conditions.

He said: “The commitment and team work from the pupils was fantastic with all the primary schools completing the course and having a great time with their friends.”

Mr Salmon also praised the Year 9 leaders who he said were a ‘credit to the school’ as the day formed part of their level one ‘orienteering leaders’ award.’

“This award involves students being team leaders, course marshals, runners, result organisers as well as organising prizes and awards – all part of the experience of running a large event,’ Mr Salmon said.

Sara Adams, principal at The Wey Valley School also commended pupils on a superb day. She said: “There was lots of energy, teamwork and outdoor skills on show from the Year 5 pupils and student leaders and I would like to thank all who took part. We look forward to another great Big Orienteering Festival next year.”