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During the Easter Break, Gold DofE students took part in a practice expedition in preparation for their qualifying expedition in June. The students spent Tuesday 2 April learning how to set up a secure and safe camp, how to navigate and plot routes on a map, how to cook on a Trangia, and how to accurately pace to calculate distance and timings, as well as having the chance to observe some of the beautiful landscapes of the Peak District.

On Wednesday, it was time to put their new-found skills to the test! The students plotted their circular route and navigated their way to the campsite on a 7-hour walk, on which students made their way up one of the highest hills in the Peak District, Mam Tor, and steepest descents Jacob’s Ladder, after which they had to cook their own evening meal.

Despite some rain and blustering wind, the students’ spirits remained high and on the Thursday morning they packed up camp and set off for their last walk of the week, trekking across several steep climbs in the area. All students were enthusiastic and wanted to achieve their best possible walking time.

Blenheim’s Gold DofE students did exceptionally well on the practice expedition, and were complimented by the instructors on what a lovely group they were, and how quickly they picked up essential skills. They were continuously impressed with their professionalism throughout the expedition.

We are all very proud of the Blenheim Gold DofE students, and look forward to the qualifying expedition to Brecon in June.