The Duke of Edinburgh's Award: Silver Practice Expedition

Nineteen Year 10 students successfully completed The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Silver Practice Expedition between Thursday 14th and Saturday 16th May, spending two nights camping and three days hiking across the South Downs whilst navigating and cooking for themselves.

Day 1

The expedition began at Parkwood Campsite in Poynings, Brighton where students set off in their groups, each accompanied by an instructor who provided focused and practical navigation training. Using maps and compasses, students developed their understanding of route planning, bearings, and terrain interpretation. ​​​In the afternoon, students began by consolidating the essential skills required for a successful qualifying expedition. The morning was dedicated to a series of structured training sessions, including tent pitching, effective rucksack packing, first aid awareness, emergency procedures, and food and menu planning. These sessions ensured that all participants were well-prepared, organised, and aware of safety considerations before embarking on their journey.

Day 2

Students began the day by preparing and cooking their own breakfast before dismantling their tents and carefully packing their expedition rucksacks. The remainder of the day was dedicated to a full walking route, with teams travelling independently between designated checkpoints. This phase allowed students to build confidence in their navigation and decision-making, applying the skills they had developed on Day 1. At each checkpoint, instructors met with groups to provide guidance, feedback, and further support, reinforcing the core competencies required for the qualifying expedition. Students tackled varied terrain across the South Downs while making their way to their second campsite at Plumpton Racecourse. 

Day 3

On the final day, students rose early to prepare and cook their breakfast before packing down their equipment for the final time. They then set off towards their final destination in Lewes, navigating with increasing confidence and independence. 

One student celebrated their birthday during the expedition, so the group enjoyed a slice of chocolate cake on their final evening of camping, which went down a treat. The birthday girl was also treated to repeated renditions of ‘Happy Birthday’, enthusiastically sung by her group, their expedition leader, Miss Buckley and Mr Stidder at every checkpoint!

All teams completed the route successfully and in good time, reflecting the strength, resilience, and determination shown by every student throughout the expedition. Congratulations to Charlie M, Toby, Fred, Sam, Flynn, Lewis, Bear, Charlie S, Ethan, Sam, Kai, Edie, Holly, Aelitta, Flo, Lexi, Ellen, Maeve and Poppy.

Mr Stidder, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Manager, commented,

'I am extremely proud of all students for their achievements during this practice expedition. Their hard work and commitment have ensured they are well-prepared and ready to take on the DofE Silver Qualifying Expedition in September.'

A big thank you to Mr Stidder for organising the practice expedition, and to Miss Buckley for her fantastic support throughout the three days. We are also very grateful to our expedition provider, Outspark, for coordinating everything so brilliantly and ensuring our DofE expeditions always run smoothly.

A special shout out to our budding photographer, Charlie M for taking most of the photos during the expedition.