Another successful Bronze DofE practice expedition

Following a month of ever-changing weather conditions, 104 Year 10 Bronze DofE participants and staff members breathed a huge sigh of relief, soaked up the sunshine, and enjoyed the predominantly blue skies above!

Over four days, 16 teams got thoroughly stuck into in-school training sessions on eight key areas: map skills, road safety plus The Countryside Code, tents, stoves, first aid, food & hydration, equipment & rucksack packing, plus eDofE. Participants demonstrated sound understanding and adherence to safety guidance whilst working in their teams.

The evening brought an opportunity for teams to practice the safe use of stoves and further develop team cohesion during the cooking of an evening meal on Trangia stoves.

Expedition 1 experienced reasonably mild conditions overnight whilst camping on the school field, however temperatures certainly dropped during Expedition 2’s camp; participants were surprised to find a frosty coating to tents on waking. Thankfully, temperatures rose quickly, and all were able to undertake the 10 mile circuit walk along the canal and through Rushmere Country Park in brilliant sunshine.

It wasn’t unusual for rucksacks to feel heavy, and feet to feel a little sore, especially by the end of the adventure, however participants should draw strength from the challenges overcome, and feel very satisfied with their performance – well done everyone!

A big thank you to the large volunteer staff team for their time and energy – this event couldn’t happen with you!