By Miss Sadler (Science Teacher and DofE Volunteer)

On Saturday 29th April, 40 Year 10s met at School bright and early to travel to the Peak District for their Silver Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Expedition. This involves three days of walking, with two nights camping whilst carrying all their food and equipment. We arrived at Carsington Water at 9:15am to sort final checks of the kit and then for the groups to depart for day one of their expedition. All groups navigated well throughout the Derbyshire countryside and were starting to realise what the contour lines on the maps meant in terms of walking up, and down, the hills. 

Over the three days, there was a variety of weather, from bright sunshine to rain. All students came prepared and were able to adapt well to this change. One of the biggest takeaways from the expedition was how well each group worked together to overcome any challenges as well as working together to put up tents, cook their meals and reflect on the day's walking and come up with a plan on how to tackle the following day. We were joined on the first campsite by a number of peacocks and alpacas, with the peacocks providing an early alarm on day two, at the second campsite, cows providing a morning alarm on day three.

We look forward to seeing, and hearing, what they learnt along their journey. Well done to all students for completing the expedition and for being fantastic the entire time. View photos from the expedition here.

Niya Nair (Year 10) said: “DofE was definitely an interesting and fun experience and it was quite an eye-opener to our surroundings and wildlife. Though it was very tiring at times, the views were spectacular in the Peak District and I got to know my group even better than I had before! This experience really showed us how with a bit of teamwork and perseverance, we can do anything!”

Simeen Bilgrami (Year 10) reflected: “I had a great experience on DofE as I became stronger both physically and mentally, and I developed my teamwork and leadership skills. Despite the fact that it was hard and a lot of resilience and determination was needed to push through, I enjoyed the journey as I got to spend it with my friends and face difficulties which enabled me to grow.”

Sonia Erwig (Year 10) added: "I thought that the DofE silver award was a good opportunity to learn how to work effectively in a team to overcome challenges in a new situation. It helped me to develop both leadership and communication skills and I really enjoyed the expedition."  

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