DofE Bronze Expedition

All Year 9 pupils spent a day in the Hertfordshire countryside learning navigational skills before the Bronze DofE girls embarked on their assessed expedition last weekend.

Thanks to a dedicated team of staff, and enthusiastic pupils, levels of participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme are high at South Hampstead. The range of activities and opportunities encourages girls to become self-sufficient, develop a sense of responsibility and learn to both lead and function as part of a team. This year, the whole of Year 9 spent a day learning map-reading skills and enjoying the summer weather (rain) in the great outdoors. All those doing their DofE – the vast majority of the year group – then went on to complete their two-day expedition.

Eva reports back on some of her highlights:

‘Having had sunshine the previous week, we weren’t too happy to start our expedition in the rain… but thanks to some singing, lots of jokes and conversation, everyone’s morale was high. I loved spending time with friends; we all developed great skills, including map reading, and everyone in the group had something to contribute.  After hours of walking, we finally made it to the campsite, setting up tents, cooking dinner and hearing the other groups’ stories. The next morning there was more rain and a chilly, sleep-deprived start to the day as we set off with aching muscles after a filling breakfast. Fortunately there were some sunny spells to keep us going and we all motivated each other. The feeling when we finished was amazing – I was proud of myself and my group, having got through some rough times. We came away with many memorable experiences and I would definitely do it all again.’