Duke of Edinburgh Adventure for Upper Remove Pupils

Bronze Duke of Edinburgh pupils from the Upper Remove were all set for adventure on their assessed expedition to the Cotswolds last weekend.

Sixty-two pupils enjoyed the glorious June weather in the stunning Cotswolds; for many this was the exciting final challenge to complete the Bronze Award, having already received their Certificate of Achievement for completing their Skill, Physical and Volunteering Sections.

Four teams camped at Stow-on-the-Wold Rugby Club, independently navigating a circular route from and to Moreton-in-Marsh. Six teams camped at Hayles Fruit Farm near Winchcombe, navigating their way to their finish in Broadway.

Pupils were assessed by King’s staff on diverse skills including their kit, campcraft, navigation and map reading skills, teamwork, food and cooking, and on their exploration of their team’s aim. There was a myriad of aims, such as inspecting the dry-stone walls they passed, the condition of stiles, the flora and fauna they saw and wildlife their experienced on their route.

All pupils who completed the two-day expedition were passed by the assessment team of Ms Rhodes, Mr Jackson, Mr Branchett, Mrs Beard, Mr Ison, Mrs Rutter and Mr Cuthbertson. Mrs Nesbitt and Dr Pettinsingh also accompanied the pupils in a supervisory role.

The weather – though glorious for those enjoying ice creams and cold drinks in the garden – presented its own challenges for the teams who were carrying their own tents, food, and other equipment. Pupils managed extremely well despite the particularly hot weather on Saturday.

A significant number of pupils have already signed up for the Silver Award and can look forward to their next Duke of Edinburgh expedition to Dartmoor next spring.