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On Thursday the 11th of May, year 10 set out on their practice expedition for their silver Duke of Edinburgh award. For three days, the students travelled in teams of five to seven around the Groombridge area, navigating their way to and from the campsite. Each evening they would go back to camp, preparing their own meals before sleeping each night in a tent, before returning to home at the end of the third day. 

Though there were several challenges that we had to overcome throughout the expedition, it was a great experience and perfect practice for the real version, which will be happening in August. We were travelling at least seven hours a day, with frequent breaks and stops to eat food and recuperate: though it could feel demoralising at points, thinking of how long we had to go before getting to rest, we always worked as a team to help each other continue. Some groups sang or made chants to help re-energise them on the journey, while others would share snacks as they walked. In my own experience, there was no better feeling than getting back to camp and taking my boots off, resting for a while before dinner. Year 10 is currently planning routes and preparing for their qualifying expedition, which will determine whether they have achieved the award.

Holly Dye, Charlotte Kilner, Heidi Glass, Molly Pickles, Saira Zia, Yashvitha Nadavala

DofE Group H