By Miss Sadler (Bronze DofE Coordinator)

On Saturday 65 Year 9’s preparing for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award took part in a training day designed to equip them with essential skills for their upcoming expedition. The programme focused on practical outdoor learning including navigation, campcraft, first aid, and teamwork.

Groups developed navigation skills, learning how to read maps, identify key features, interpret contour lines, and use a compass to take bearings. They also practised route planning by plotting journeys on maps and completing route cards with estimated timings, distances, and checkpoints to ensure safe and efficient travel for their assessed expedition.

A practical cooking session using Trangia stoves gave participants experience of preparing food in outdoor conditions. They learned how to safely assemble and use the equipment, manage fuel, and cook simple meals. The day also explored suitable expedition food, with emphasis on lightweight, high-energy options such as pasta, cereal bars, dried fruit, and instant meals, while avoiding heavy or perishable items.

Basic first aid training covered how to deal with common issues such as blisters, minor cuts, dehydration, and fatigue, helping students feel more confident managing problems in the field. Participants were also introduced to the Countryside Code, learning the importance of respecting the environment, leaving no trace, closing gates, protecting wildlife, and being considerate to others.

The day also included rucksack packing techniques, showing students how to organise their equipment effectively, distribute weight properly, and keep essential items like water, maps, and waterproofs easily accessible.

By the end of the training, participants had gained a clearer understanding of the challenges ahead and the practical skills needed for a safe and successful expedition. The experience marked an important step in their Bronze journey, turning preparation into confidence for the outdoors.