Year 10 and Year 11 students successfully completed a practice expedition for the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award in the picturesque Cotswolds region. The expedition was designed to prepare the students for the challenges they will face during their official Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition.
The students spent two days and two nights in the Cotswolds, navigating their way through the picturesque countryside using map and compass. They were also responsible for setting up camp and cooking their own meals.
The expedition was a great opportunity for the students to develop their teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. It also gave them the chance to connect with nature, something that is becoming increasingly important in today’s digital age.
The students faced a few challenges during the expedition, including unpredictable weather conditions and difficult terrain. However, they worked together to overcome these obstacles and successfully completed the trek.
Weather conditions were difficult, with a downpour Saturday which didn’t end until 2am Sunday morning. Mr Fincham didn’t get much sleep on the first night due to the cold temperatures and had to shelter in the toilet block!
One of the students said, “It was a great experience to be out in nature and away from technology for a few days. It was tough at times, but we helped each other and achieved our goal. I’m looking forward to the real expedition now!”
They will complete their qualifying expedition in July, when they will spend three days and two nights in Long Mynd.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is a popular initiative that encourages young people to develop their skills, take part in physical activities, and volunteer in their local communities. The Silver Award is the second level of the scheme and requires students to complete a range of challenging activities over a period of several months.
Completing the practice expedition is just one step towards achieving the Silver Award, but it is an important one. The students now have the confidence and experience needed to undertake the real expedition, which is sure to be a memorable and rewarding experience for all involved.
