Duke of Edinburgh Silver Expedition
Year 11 Students Complete Duke of Edinburgh Silver Expedition at Glyncorrwg
Over the course of two weekends, Year 11 students from Whitchurch High School embarked on their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Silver Award expedition in the stunning Glyncorrwg valley. Led and organised by Mrs. Coombes, the two groups of students faced the challenges of the Welsh outdoors with resilience, teamwork, and determination.
The expedition, which is a key component of the DofE Silver Award, tested the students' skills in camping, hiking, and map reading. Over several days, they navigated through rugged terrain, set up camp in the heart of nature, and honed their outdoor survival skills. Despite facing unpredictable weather, the students rose to the occasion, demonstrating both their physical endurance and mental fortitude.
Mrs. Coombes, who oversees the DofE program at Whitchurch High School, praised the students for their dedication: "The Duke of Edinburgh Award is not only about physical challenges; it builds character, teaches valuable life skills, and fosters a sense of responsibility. I am incredibly proud of how our students worked together and supported one another throughout the expedition. They’ve come away from this experience stronger, more confident, and with memories that will last a lifetime."
For many of the students, this was their first experience camping overnight in the wild and navigating without modern technology. The groups worked together to carefully follow their planned routes using traditional map-reading techniques, learning to adapt and problem-solve when unexpected challenges arose.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, long supported by Whitchurch High School, encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, develop leadership skills, and engage with the natural world. The Silver Award expedition, in particular, pushes students to go further and achieve more than they thought possible.
As they completed the final leg of their journey, students reflected on their personal growth and the importance of perseverance. One Year 11 participant shared: "It was tough at times, but we all helped each other through it. I’ve learned so much about teamwork and leadership, and I feel proud of what we accomplished together."
The school looks forward to supporting future expeditions and continuing its strong tradition of encouraging students to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Congratulations to all involved!
