Leadership Council - Duke of Edinburgh Silver Expedition 2026 (#L2YP News)
At the end of September, a group of Year 11 students completed their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition in the Wye Valley, spending three days navigating the great outdoors and carrying everything they needed on their backs. Between challenging climbs, freezing nights and breathtaking views, the expedition pushed us to our limits and tested our resilience, independence and teamwork in ways we hadn’t quite anticipated.
However, the journey began long before the assessed expedition itself. During the summer heatwave, we completed our practice expedition in the Brecon Beacons, where we learnt to plan our routes, navigate unfamiliar terrain and prepare for unexpected situations through scenario training and essential first aid.
When the assessed expedition finally arrived, the weather had taken a dramatic turn. The summer heat was replaced by freezing nights, and carrying heavy backpacks across challenging terrain tested everyone’s determination. Over three days, we climbed steep hills, trekked through valleys and jumped fences, relying on one another to keep spirits high and the beautiful surroundings by passing landmarks such as Tintern Abbey and the Eagles Nest.
Navigation proved to be a challenge in itself. Armed with maps and compasses, we had to interpret our routes, identify landmarks and make decisions about which paths to follow. When we inevitably took a wrong turn, we had to think on our feet, retrace our steps and work together to get back on track. These moments called for patience, problem-solving and adaptability, reminding us that the expedition was about far more than simply reaching the finish line. It was about learning to trust our judgement, make decisions independently and support one another when things didn’t go to plan.
Away from the familiar routines of everyday life, we also gained a greater sense of independence. We were responsible for managing our equipment, organising our campsites, preparing our own meals and keeping our teams on track. Early starts meant setting off in the crisp morning air as the sun rose over the landscape, while the evenings offered a chance to pause beneath star-filled skies and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.
Reaching the campsite each evening brought a welcome change of pace. Tents were pitched, camping stoves were fired up and warm meals provided some much-needed comfort after long days on the trail. The cold soon became less important amid camp games, shared snacks and endless laughter. Proving to be as memorable as the walks itself it increased morale and bright groups closer.
By the third day, sore feet, aching muscles, countless blisters and a few minor injuries had become part of the experience. Yet, with the finish line finally in sight, sheer relief and excitement carried us through the final stretch. Crossing the last checkpoint marked the end of three demanding days and brought an overwhelming sense of achievement. The celebrations continued on the journey home, complete with a well-earned service station stop, before we finally arrived back at school — exhausted, battered and bruised, but undeniably proud to have made it through.
“It was about much more than walking from one checkpoint to another. It challenges students to step outside their comfort zones, solve problems under pressure and persevere when things become difficult.” - DofE team
