DofE Silver Walking Qualifying Expedition to Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons)...

On Friday 23^rd June, 36 5^th Form pupils (6 DofE walking groups) dragged themselves away from their restful exam leave to do their Silver DofE Qualifying Expedition on the Brecon Beacons. Following a pre-expedition meal of take-away pizza at Newcourt Valley Campsite near Hay-on-Wye, we all settled down for a good night’s sleep.

Day 1 had groups leave the campsite and undertake an 18 km route in a loop to the south. With temperatures soaring to as high as 26 degrees and little cloud cover, pupils needed to make sure they had their hats, sun cream and regular water refills. The route’s highest peak was the curiously named ‘Lord Hereford’s Knob’. Navigation was of a much higher standard to that seen on the practice on Exmoor in March, showing that much had been learnt about using a map and compass. That said, it turned out to be a long day in all, with most groups not getting back much before 6pm.

Day 2 was equally hot, with the routes heading in a more easterly direction and including Gospel Pass - a favourite for hikers and motorcyclists alike.  Although there were a few issues with navigation and communication in the groups; understandable given the heat and levels of tiredness; groups got back safely once again and had a chance to recharge their batteries for the final day’s walk.  

Day 3. After a spot of rain during the night, day 3 began promptly with groups setting off at around 0800. The route was shorter to those of days 1 and 2, and less hilly. This allowed pupils to push on at good pace before arriving in Hay on Wye to the prospect of being able to take their packs off, and once debriefed, head into the quaint little town for a well-deserved refreshment and snack.  

All pupils were terrific throughout, both in terms of their individual and collective performances. Many regularly commented that they felt they had learnt a huge amount from the experience on both a personal and  a skills level. Furthermore, most pupils actually really enjoyed being away from their technology for a few days, which gave them a chance to communicate much more with their peers and look up to see the beautiful nature around them. Particular mention must go to Ryeland’s pace and navigation, Texel’s spirit and teamwork and Romney’s all round performance which included, on day 3, a first aid situation that they handled with poise and intelligence.

This has been the largest ever cohort for Silver; 36 pupils; with many already suggesting that they’d like to follow this up with taking on Gold DofE with Mr Thompson. The future looks both bright and busy as we look ahead to academic year 2023/24.  

Mr Loveless would like to thank all pupils and the staff who helped make this trip such a success; Miss Flavell, Mr Thompson, Ms Checketts and Mrs Wilson-Brown, our external assessor David Hamlin (Somerset and Sexeys DofE) and his gorgeous pooch Woody, and finally Tim Gray, who brought to the expedition a vast range of experience alongside his warmth and good humour.

Tom Loveless  DofE Coordinator