Year 9 Rise to the Challenge on Duke of Edinburgh Practice Walk

Our Year 9 students took a major step toward achieving their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award recently by completing their challenging practice navigation walks. The cohort was split across two days of trekking, with 29 students hitting the trails on Day 1 and 30 students taking over for Day 2.

Once on-site, students were divided into their official expedition groups. They were handed maps and compasses and tasked with navigating independently around the Methley area. To ensure safety and assess competency, a staff member accompanied each group. However, the students were entirely in the driving seat, making all the key decisions and finding their own way along the routes.

The walk was designed to test more than just navigation. Carrying full kit bags and loaded rucksacks, the students had to manage their own pacing to avoid burnout. They also had to monitor their food and water intake carefully to keep their energy levels up across the distance.

Every single cohort performed fantastically. Proving their determination, every single group successfully navigated the course and made it back to base. Huge congratulations go to all the teams involved, who demonstrated outstanding resilience, leadership, and teamwork throughout the day.

The journey does not stop here. The groups will next come together during our mid-June Drop Down Day. During this session, they will learn the vital campcraft skills needed for their final overnight stay, including how to pitch tents and safely operate gas stove cookers.