Silver DofE students battle the elements on practice expedition

The last expedition of the calendar year brought 42 participants from Y11 to the White Peaks in Derbyshire. The six teams were eager to make the most of training in a new undulating terrain.

Mountain Leaders Alan Moser, Lee Wilson and Pete Burniston delivered sessions on compass skills. They were impressed by everyone’s determination to take and follow a bearing, plus build on the basic map reading and navigation techniques learnt at Bronze level.

Participants demonstrated sound campcraft skills and worked well in their teams, especially at Camp 2 (Pomeroy), where all hands were needed to quickly and efficiently put up tents in strong winds. The following morning, campers woke to heavy rain, but this did not dampen spirits as all teams completed their final day of walking to the small village of Over Haddon near Bakewell.

Well done to everyone for showing such great determination, and thank you to the volunteer staff team for overseeing proceedings!