After 3 days on foot with overloaded bags getting heavier by the mile the 15 remaining Duke of Edinburgh candidates from yr12 completed a 40km hike around some of the greenest (and hilliest) parts of the Brecon Beacons National park. Existing on a diet rich in super noodles and powdered milk the group experienced sunshine and showers, finding unique ways to descend steep slopes – forget staying upright – slide down feet first… Spending 2 nights under canvas without luxuries like showers and hot water can really test friendships but as each checkpoint was reached all 15 team members kept on smiling, especially at the finish! The assessor Chris Payne who co-ordinates the Gold Award at a local engineering firm commented that the group were a delightful and competent group of young people, all of whom would be capable of enrolling on their Gold award, once all of the Silver sections are completed and certificated. Well done team 2010, a pleasure working with you and thanks to all staff who helped with your training this year.
Team photo – blistered and bedraggled but glad to get rid of the rucksacks! |
