Students Conquer Expedition Trek!
The Skipton Academy is buzzing with excitement as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Year 9 and Year 10 students who recently completed their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Bronze assessed expedition and Silver practice expedition. On the 10th and 11th of June 2023, a group of 22 Year 9 students, accompanied by 12 Year 10 students, embarked on their adventurous journey in the breathtaking Malham area. It was a testament to their determination, teamwork, and resilience.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme is renowned for pushing young people to discover their potential and develop valuable skills for life. The Bronze and Silver expeditions are an integral part of this prestigious program, encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones, explore the great outdoors, and overcome challenges along the way.
Under the guidance of our dedicated staff and expedition leaders, our students demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resourcefulness throughout their expedition. They faced unpredictable weather conditions, rugged terrains, and the need for practical navigation skills. But, despite these obstacles, they remained focused, determined, and resilient.
During their time in the Malham area, our students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. They experienced the awe-inspiring landscapes, ranging from the iconic Malham Cove to the stunning Janet's Foss waterfall. Such experiences not only foster a deep appreciation for the environment but also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
The expedition also encouraged our students to develop essential life skills, such as effective communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. They had to work together as a team, supporting and encouraging each other every step of the way. These skills are invaluable for their future endeavours, enabling them to face challenges with confidence and determination.
Completing the DofE expedition is a significant achievement, and we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate each and every student who participated. Your dedication, resilience, and determination have undoubtedly paid off. The experience gained from this expedition will indeed shape your character, build your self-belief, and open doors to endless possibilities.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff and expedition leaders, who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this expedition. Your guidance, expertise, and unwavering support have made a significant impact on the students' experience and their personal growth.
At Skipton Academy, we are immensely proud of our students and their accomplishments. The completion of the DofE Bronze assessed and Silver practice expeditions marks a significant milestone in their journey of self-discovery and personal development. We have no doubt that the lessons learned, friendships forged, and challenges overcome during this experience will leave an indelible mark on their lives.
As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we eagerly anticipate the future achievements and adventures that lie ahead for our exceptional young individuals. The Skipton Academy commends each and every student for their determination, perseverance, and outstanding commitment to the DofE program. Your accomplishments are an inspiration to us all.
Congratulations again to our incredible Year 9 and Year 10 students on completing the DofE Bronze and Silver expedition walks. Your hard work and resilience have set an example for future generations to follow, and we cannot wait to witness the next chapter of your journey.
Mr Fryer, DofE leader, commented:
"It is a testament to the improvements of The Skipton Academy that we are able to offer this opportunity to students with a wide range of abilities. Students overcame major challenges during the expedition, largely relating to the high temperatures experienced but this did not phase students. I would like to also thank the Tesco Community grant scheme and DofE for providing funding for new equipment which was used during the expedition. This made the experience of students much more enjoyable and also allowed us to expand our intake to a more diverse range of students."
