Going On an Expedition Weekend
Last week, more than 250 pupils across our Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Schemes (DofE) and Combined Cadet Force (CCF) sections embarked on their expeditions across England, Wales and the Isle of Man. It was an exciting opportunity for pupils to explore the great outdoors and challenge themselves in new ways.
The Bronze Award DofE trip went to RGS The Grange with 120 Year Nine pupils taking part in a day’s walking on Friday, before cooking their own tea and camping overnight on Friday night.
The Silver Award DofE group headed to the Black Mountains in Wales to complete their practice expedition. The Gold Award practice expedition set off to Llanrug in North Wales. Before departing, students went through bag packing, equipment distribution, and kit checks. Once they arrived, they put up tents, planned their routes, and cooked meals as a team. These practice expeditions provided students with an excellent chance to enhance their navigation skills, camp craft abilities, and route planning expertise. It also helped prepare them for emergency scenarios and deepen their understanding of navigation and expedition skills.
Meanwhile, the CCF Royal Navy section set off to HMS Raleigh in Plymouth, the largest Royal Navy training establishment in the South West. They had a fascinating tour of the submarine school before heading off to HMS Devonport where they enjoyed a guided tour of HMS Iron Duke, which is currently undergoing a period of maintenance. Finally, they went on a Harbour Tour in which, in spite of rather blustery conditions, a great time was had by all!
The CCF RAF section travelled to RAF Cosford in Shropshire where they underwent training at one of the largest Royal Air Force training establishments in the UK. RAF Cosford is a significant part of the Defence College of Technical Training (DCTT) and is at the heart of the RAF’s mission to provide flexible, affordable, modern, and effective technical training that meets the needs of the UK’s Armed Forces now and in the future.
The CCF Army section went all the way to the Venture Centre in the Isle of Man where they engaged in various activities. Activities at the Venture Centre range from bushcraft, orienteering, abseiling, and gorge walking. It was a chance for the Cadets to test their physical and mental stamina and push their limits.
While at times the weather conditions were challenging over the Expedition weekend, we hope the pupils learned a lot from the experience and enjoyed the opportunity to complete their expeditions. On behalf of the pupils, we would like to thank Teaching and Support staff involved for their dedication and commitment to provide such experiences.