Highlight of the Week

Bronze DofE Qualifying Expedition

The Bronze Qualifying Expedition comprises a massive learning curve for our Year 9 pupils. The pupils are tried and tested in a way that most have never experienced before. They face multiple new experiences all stacked one on top of another and the whole event can be overwhelming for many. Hiking with a heavy pack, looking after their own food and personal care, camping, navigating, coping with diverse weather conditions, not to mention dealing with the problems experienced by other members of their group, all pile up to make one BIG adventure!

Staff accompanying the pupils must try to give them a sense of independence, to allow them space to problem solve and develop their skills, while at the same time being mindful of the enormity of the task ahead of them. Balancing encouragement and nurturing with respect for their independence during their adventure is a delicate tightrope to tread!

This year’s Bronze Qualifier delivered drama in spades! From groups lost in forestry, to boots lost in swamps, we saw our pupils overcome adversity in all its forms as they braved a freezing April night with only a sleeping bag and a tent to shield them from the elements. We were astounded by their positivity and bravery as they trudged on in determination to their end point, nursing blisters, scratches, scrapes, sore hips, and aching shoulders.

Special mention should be made of one group who, having wondered around in circles at the beginning of day one, epitomised the character-building nature of DofE Expeditions as they completed day two in record time with perfect navigation. The Dark Green group made it to The Gower Heritage Centre early and spent several relaxing hours in the sun as they waited for their peers to arrive. The manager of the Heritage Centre commented on their polite and considerate behaviour as they chatted amicably with staff and customers while they waited.

It is always lovely to hear of our pupils being congratulated for the positive impression they make as we take them on trips, but I must confess to a proud tear in my eye as the last group rocked into camp after a mammoth eight hours of walking to a rousing cheer of congratulations from the congregated group.

I would like to congratulate all the pupils who took part, as well as thanking and congratulating the staff, who transitioned from despair on day one to pride on day two as they witnessed the transformative power of the expedition on the skills and attitude of the pupils.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award could not run without staff volunteers as each expedition takes a great deal of human resources to ensure the safety of the pupils. Enormous thanks to Amanda Felstead, our DofE Coordinator, for organising the expedition with such incredible attention to detail, and to the following staff for accompanying and encouraging all those involved: Andrew Vaughan, Mat Bowen, Meg Dickson, Allison Tuck-Johnson, Sara Leyshon, Rachel Searle, Mat Pritchard, Jared Gore and Samantha Birch.