BRONZE DUKE OF EDINBURGH PRACTICE EXPEDITION

This weekend 111 Year 9 students took part in their practice expedition for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.

The weather was unpredictable and challenging at times, luckily no one was camping during the torrential downfall on Saturday night. Students on their first day arrived to school with smiles on their faces and a positive outlook. We started our journey to the Surrey Hills where students had their equipment checked and preparations made for their first day of hiking.

They set off around 10am with their guide who taught them how to navigate the countryside. By 3pm students began arriving at the campsite to set up their tents – which although many of them had never done before was done quickly and efficiently. Students then began to cook their dinner on a camping stove – there was pasta as far as the eye could see. One group even prepared a 4 course meal with a charcuterie board with salami, chorizo, cheese and crackers.

Students then had some downtime – playing football, baseball and frisbee. The nights were cold but students slept well to the pitter patter of rain.

The following day saw students follow their planned routes without a guide, making their way past Frensham Ponds to the final checkpoint. Six arduous hours had left many exhausted but spirits were still high. Students took the coach home for a well- deserved shower and home cooked meal.

The Duke of Edinburgh award allows students to demonstrate independence, teamwork skills and develops their character. We welcome even more applications next year from the current Year 8!

Well done to all students who took part in the expedition, I am very proud of you all. Hopefully, this expedition has taught you to pack more wisely for the qualifying expedition!

Mr Rylance, Duke of Edinburgh Co-ordinator