comedy , companionship and camaraderie , and a unique opportunity to get a relaxing ( well , at times ) change of pace – but , of course , there were some highlights like early wake-ups , sore feet , and dealing with the nuisance that calls itself a Trangia .
The Silver expedition is just a small step up from Bronze in difficulty , and you have to plan better for that third and final day – always , always , pack more socks than you can imagine using – but it ’ s at least twice as fun , or so I ’ m convinced . I would not book anything for the day afterwards because you will be exhausted and desperate for a morning in bed . Our group started strong , but as time passed there was some slight friction both in our boots and between us . However , that all was resolved by the end . I can ’ t thank the staff enough who made the expedition possible , especially Mr Mavroleon , Mr Tate and Miss Kraass . If you ’ re not sure about doing Silver , do it anyway , it is worth it .
Max Whitby-Smith , Year 11
GOLD
After completing the Silver Award , or by direct entrance to the award scheme , around 40 Lower Sixth students took up the opportunity to participate in Gold DofE this year . This has undoubtedly been a step up from Silver , with increased timescales and extra commitments . It ’ s challenging : from volunteering and doing a physical activity for 12 months each and developing a skill for six months , to completing a five-day residential trip and two four-day expeditions , Gold DofE requires constant commitment . For me , the most memorable aspect has been the expeditions : a practice in the Brecon Beacons ( Bannau Brycheiniog ) and a qualifying expedition in Snowdonia ( Eryri ).
In planning and completing both expeditions , our group learned the importance of organisation , perseverance and , of course , good navigation skills . Navigating the more difficult Gold routes was a challenge initially , but we overcame this with practice and managed not to get lost ; I won ’ t forget the sense of achievement we all felt after reaching the top of a steep mountain with our heavy backpacks .
We had some stressful moments – such as getting our boots , walking poles and legs stuck in marshes – but this didn ’ t stop us from having a great time . We had many fun moments , like our group making s ’ mores together on the final night , that made the expedition an amazing experience .
Thank you to the teachers and coordinators for organising the trips and for supporting us throughout the whole DofE process !
Nina Mickleburgh , Lower Sixth
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