The Silver DofE training expedition began in lovely sunshine at 4:30pm on Saturday 9^th October.

The 33 pupils involved arrived on Hippisley playing field, not far from Lyon House, to pitch their tents and set up camp. After a brief reminder about the safe use of a Trangia stove, the groups set about cooking their evening meals - something many had never done before. After a range of interesting and, at times, curious meals had been consumed, there was time in the cooling evening to relax together in beautiful surroundings. By 9pm, all had realised that sleep was the best option.

A calm, misty morning greeted pupils as they emerged from their tents at around 7am on Sunday morning, and before long, all were busy cooking and packing up ready for the adventure ahead. At 9am, pupils set off with a member of staff on the 18km circular route, with 3 groups heading anti-clockwise, and the other 2 groups in a clockwise direction. The day was full of smiles as the October sun again beamed down on everyone. All pupils were encouraged to have a go at navigating, in the hope that by the end of the experience, everyone would have developed their skills. In addition to this challenge, along the way, staff presented pupils with an interesting range of (staged!) medical emergencies, in a bid to raise awareness of basic first aid principles and to develop their teamwork strategies.

By 4pm, all groups had returned to school having completed the route. Though some found the experience harder than others, staff were once again impressed with the attitude and support that the pupils showed one another. Much too, has been learnt about what they might do differently next time; by way of food/diet, kit and walking as a group. While it will be essential for many to get further training in before our 48 hour trip at the end of next term, staff were happy with what they saw and enjoyed immensely, seeing our 5^th Form pupils in a different context, away from the strains and stresses of school.

Mr Loveless would like to thank the pupils, the staff who helped: Miss Flavell, Mr Thompson, Mrs Portch, Mrs Dixon and Miss Miles; and Veronica in the catering department for her support. Well done to all!

Tom Loveless - DofE Leader

Flickr album: DofE Silver Walking Expedition - 9th October 2021 | Height: auto | Theme: Default | Skin: Default Skin

The video was filmed by the pupils.