By Dr Howe (DofE Manager)

The Bronze DofE students made a great impression on their practice expedition last weekend. They arrived punctually at the Assembly Hall and organised themselves really efficiently so we made a prompt departure on the coaches to Beeston. The groups set off walking from Beeston Green at intervals, being trained on route by members of staff in the art of map reading and compass use. Students were engaged and showed good use of skills. On arrival at Ickwell, the tents went up, the safe use of a Trangia stove was demonstrated, and then it was time for a slap-up meal - pasta was a popular choice. After dinner the groups plotted their routes for the second day, created their route planners and then relaxed with friends until bedtime.

Saturday morning was a very early start for many, as dawn woke the campsite. Many groups chose porridge and hot chocolate for breakfast. With tents folded and bags packed the groups were ready for the second, longer walk to Cople. I would like to commend the students on how tidy they left the camping area – the ‘leave no trace’ adage was well adhered to. Not the sunshine we were hoping for, but still dry, so nice walking conditions. This time the students were supervised more remotely and were responsible for navigating between checkpoints. This resulted in some groups walking rather further than needed and highlighted the importance of the use of a compass! The general mood was very positive as can be seen in the accompanying photographs. Several members of the public also commented on how well-mannered and cheerful the groups were.

Congratulations to the students involved on completing the training expedition! They will now be plotting their routes and completing their route planners ready for the assessment expedition in North Bedfordshire on 10th and 11th June. The DofE award aims to empower young people, help them learn new skills and build confidence and resilience and is a very rewarding program. I would like to thank the many staff involved who gave of their time and expertise to make this possible.

View photos from the practice expedition here.

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