Scaling New Heights

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award offers pupils the opportunity to undertake challenging expeditions, working on their own, in remote environments. The qualifying expeditions for this year's awards took place over half term.

The Silver teams travelled to the Tissington area of the Peak District and enjoyed stunning walking conditions in Dove Dale, before compelting their expedition in the village of Youlgreave. Highlights for the teams included the experience of waking up with beautiful scenery on the doorstep, enjoying the food they cooked themselves when they arrived in camp and the mixed feelings of satisfaction and relief at the end of a long day’s walking.

The Gold Award candidates undertook their expedition in the Lake District, taking on a challenging walking route from Wasdale Head to Keswick, via the summits of Helvellyn and Blencathra and famous Lakeland ridges such as Swirral Edge and Hall’s Fell Ridge. Highlights included scrambling on the ridges, two nights spent wild camping in the fells and the joy of finally getting their feet dry again at the end.

The pupils involved greatly enjoyed the experience and value the learning and development it provided for them. They are also very grateful to all the staff who supported them throughout their expedition.

In addition to the expedition section, volunteering also plays an important role in the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards. This year, our pupils' contribution to their communities has been recognised with a certificate from the Award body.

Head back to stories