By Miss Sadler (Science Teacher and Bronze DofE Coordinator)

At the start of the summer holiday’s our Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award Sixth Form students took on their assessed expedition in the stunning Lake District. Over five days, they successfully journeyed across Cumbria, starting near Penrith in the east and finishing on the west coast at Allonby. 

The first evening was spent checking maps, route cards, and kit before settling into the village hall for a good night’s rest. Due to the change in the weather, the routes were altered so the walk around Derwent Water was on the first part of the student’s expedition. After the first night’s camping, the following morning, the expedition set off with the toughest challenge of the week: climbing Blencathra (2,847 feet). Blue skies and good visibility rewarded the effort, offering breathtaking views of Thirlmere, Derwent Water, and much of the route ahead. 

The sun shone for the final part of the expedition and the participants reached the coast in sunshine. Despite tired legs and sore feet, they completed the Expedition section with smiles, cheers, and a real sense of achievement. Their resilience, navigation skills, and most importantly the way they supported one another throughout the journey were truly impressive.

A huge thanks goes to Dr Howe for organising a great expedition as well as Mrs Sadler, Mr Bowden and Mr Thurston for their invaluable help and support.

View photos from the expedition here.