A huge well done to our Year 11 students from Woodham Academy who recently completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition.
The students had been preparing for a year, undertaking training covering navigation, First Aid, camp craft and route planning. The students were self-sufficient; they carried their own food, tents and stoves.
After having to postpone our expedition in July, due to extreme heat warnings, this expedition brought rather wet weather conditions on the Saturday and throughout the night. Each team showed resilience and determination, overcoming physical and mental difficulties – including meeting the local cows! Their strong teamwork skills ensured that, even when things didn’t quite go to plan, the teams were able to complete their expedition aims. Whilst one team vlogged their expedition experience, another team took on the task of searching for a 10/10 sit spot. Lunch and snack stops, accompanied by breaks in the rain, allowing stunning views of the River Tees and even some stars peeking past the clouds at the campsite helped to make it all seem worthwhile. There were lots of aching feet and shoulders, but still smiling faces and laughter, at the finish point of Barnard Castle.
Reflecting on the weekend, Pippa said, “It was really good fun to complete this big expedition with our friends and, although it was difficult because it was a long, we’re proud of ourselves for completing this challenge. I’m not used to expeditions, but it was nice to try something new.” Holly added, “It was an experience that I won’t forget – very funny and eventful at times! My favourite part was walking with the cows. I feel proud now because it was very tiring, but worth it in the end.”
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is an incredible challenge to take on and we are very proud of what each young person achieved over the expedition weekend. We hope their sense of achievement and expedition memories last a lifetime.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award also requires young people to complete Physical, Skill and Volunteering sections. Whilst preparing for this expedition, these hard-working students have also been completing various activities from football coaching to astronomy and cooking to helping at a care home. We look forward to presenting some hard-earned Bronze DofE Awards soon!