After months of completing their physical, volunteering and skills sections of their D of E, the pupils in Year 9 were well set to achieve the final part; the expedition.

During the day on Monday, year 9 pupils were reintroduced to map reading and orientation skills, used trangias and experimented with putting up shelters with the use of a tarpaulin and a pole! There were varying levels of success, but by the end of the day, all had enjoyed themselves and mastered some new skills.

Tuesday started with a kit check and the pupils were then bussed out to Matfield, where they had to navigate their way back to school. Despite some groups walking further than necessary(!), all made it safely back to the base camp for the night, behind the assembly hall. Pupils not participating in their bronze award went home whilst those undertaking their DofE, tucked in to a supper of pasta and pesto, with the odd extra packet of hot chocolate or marshmallows thrown in for good measure.

Sleep was interrupted by some heavy rain, which left all but the most intrepid opting to move into the assembly hall. Special mention must go to Eli, Zebedee, Ben, Oscar, Charlie, Leo, Maisie, India, Eve and Olivia who stayed in their tents all night, even through the rain!

As I write this, the sun is shining brightly for the last day. Today involves a walk out from school of a similar distance to Tuesday, with our fairly tired and achy pupils (and staff!) I would like to thank my amazing team of staff, without whom the last few days would not have been possible: Mr Hamilton, Mr Manktelow, Mr Willis, Miss Baker, Mrs Sanjaya, Mr Henson, Mrs Rendell and Mr Forde.

Year 9 have been fantastic this year and the last few days they have really stepped up and demonstrated resilience and teamwork. A few more hours and the summer holiday beckons; I would like to take this opportunity to wish them all a well-deserved break.

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