D of E Students Step Up

Students enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme recently completed their first practice expedition walk, marking an important step in their DofE journey. The walk served as both a training session and a chance to put months of preparation into action. The day focused on essential skills such as map reading, navigation, teamwork, and communication.

Students worked in teams to navigate a planned route using OS maps and compasses, managing real terrain in real-time. They practiced identifying landmarks, checking distances, and adjusting their path—learning not just how to reach a destination, but how to problem-solve along the way. It was a day that required both mental focus and physical effort.

Beyond the technical skills, the experience also encouraged resilience and collaboration. Students learned to rely on one another, make group decisions, and support teammates when energy waned or directions became unclear. These skills will serve them well during their qualifying expedition and beyond.

The practice walk gave students a taste of the adventure ahead. It’s just the beginning of their DofE experience, and we’re incredibly proud of how they represented themselves and our school. The road ahead may be long, but they’ve proven they’re ready for the challenge.