On Saturday 13th April, the DofE Expedition officially started, with our Gold group travelling up to the Yorkshire Dales for their practice expedition. We travelled up in glorious sunshine with hopes that it would continue for the expedition, well it's always good to hope!
The students set off from Reeth on Sunday morning to start the first of four days walking, in which they would cover approximately 25km a day, ascending and descending numerous big hills in the process, honing their navigation and compass skills.
The first couple of days proved fairly tough with the weather being against them. Rain and high winds dogged them on day one on their way to Keld, with a night of torrential rain and broken sleep.
The next morning gave us four seasons in one day, with it even snowing at one point and the weather staying unsettled throughout the next day, with sunshine, rain and hail all at the same time whilst travelling to Hardraw. As we made our way to Buckden, the sun finally came out properly.
Students were, however, all in good spirits even if the aches and pains had now started in earnest, with a few sore feet and knees having a little twinge.
After a frosty start, and a little ice on their tents, the students attacked their last day with positivity to reach Malham and the promise of a Burger King on the way home.
Much was learnt from this experience, and they are now preparing for their qualifier at the end of the summer term in the Snowdonia National Park. Thank you to all staff who came with me on the trip and help make it possible for the students to participate in these activities.
As you read this, we are already onto our next practice expedition, this time with Silver, walking around the lovely Sussex countryside, hoping that at some point the rain will stop!
Mrs P White, DofE Expedition Leader
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.jpg&command_2=resize&height_2=85 "Malaysia report by Evie Year 12")
