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KS5 Visit to Nuclear Bunker and Escape Rooms-Brentwood

During the trip to Kelvedon Hatch Nuclear Bunker, students attempted to escape the ‘Sacrifice’ or the ‘Dungeon of Doom’.

Two groups completed each escape room at different times. In ‘Sacrifice’, groups were divided into two teams, and everyone was blindfolded. Teams had to race to win, and prove themselves. The premise of the game was to compete for your life, either you would be sacrificed, or the other team. The competitive element of the escape room added extra pressure, as teams were not only racing against time, but also the either team. With only 60 minutes to solve the clues, and with the added occasional scares, the situation was stressful, but both groups did well.

In ‘Dungeon of Doom’, just like ‘Sacrifice’, groups had to split into two teams, but this time they were working together. One group were the murderers, who were facing execution, and the other team were peasants, who’s aim was to help free their friends. The time limit, once again, added stress to the situation, but both groups did well again. At first, the two teams were trapped in two separate rooms, but once they were able to break free, they were able to work together.

The escape rooms provided great fun for everyone, as well as highlighting the importance of teamwork. Communication was also very important in such a time-controlled environment. Overall, the escape rooms definitely added to the enjoyment of the day.

The Secret Nuclear Bunker

In the entrance of the nuclear bunker, an inconspicuous looking bungalow, the year 12s and 13s were each given an audio device to guide them. They then descended into a network of tunnels, dorms and communication rooms. Students told of how they learned that the bunker had been built by excavating a large hole in the ground before laying a gravel base to act as a shock absorber. Although the secret nuclear bunker was decommissioned a few decades ago, the tour still displayed the technology the government would have used to monitor and coordinate activity on the surface.

Overall, the students found the experience fun as well as interesting. Many students welcomed the opportunity to dress up and Group B even lay on each of the bunk beds in one of the dorms. After the tour, they met back up in the canteen, where they were given the chance to buy some souvenirs. Each student commented on how fascinating they found the experience and that they would happily return in the future.