Our first Duke of Edinburgh expedition

(Posted on 05/06/18)

For our first Duke of Edinburgh expedition, our students had the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscape of the Welsh country side. We set off from school early Thursday morning and made our way to Llandegla forest. For many of those taking part, this would be their first time camping, so Alee had been busy preparing the group for the expedition. This included orienteering, basic first-aid, and essential survival skills.

 

When we arrived the group were eager to get going, so fully equipped with their rucksacks containing everything they would need for the next two days, the group set out into the forest, maps in hand, and their compasses round their neck‘s. For the next six hours they were tasked with navigating an 8 mile route through the forest. Throughout they demonstrated excellent communication and teamwork skills, as they promptly met with Tamara and I at the necessary checkpoints. The students made excellent time and were in good spirits despite the odd downpour of rain, but the fantastic surroundings more than made up for the variable weather. During the expedition, the group made their way through part of the historic, Offa’s Dyke Path. This is a 177 mile route which traverses the length of Wales. During this the students got acquainted with some of the local animals, as they navigated through farmers fields to find their camp for the night.

 

Safely on site, the students were quick to erect their tents and begin preparing their evening meals. To offer additional encouragement, we were joined by the majority of the teaching staff from CIS, who were all very impressed by their hard work and dedication. After a few games of frisbee, and the traditional roasted marshmallows around the campfire, it was early to bed for a busy day ahead.

 

Greeted by a fresh morning, the group were keen to crack on with the final leg of their expedition. However, today they were to be entirely independent. Their destination was 6 miles away, where Tamara and I would be waiting with the minibus. The group cleared all checkpoints in record time, and arrived back tired, and ready for a celebratory McDonald’s. Althought this was only the practice expedition for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award, those taking part should be very proud of their accomplishments, and are in a strong position moving forward to their real expedition in June. Good luck ladies.

 

Alex Lawrenson