Year 9 Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Assessed Expedition

A huge well done to our fantastic Year 9 students who successfully completed their Bronze assessed Duke of Edinburgh expedition last weekend, travelling from Abingdon to Youlbury, and then on to Godstow in North Oxford—where they were just a short ride from home (and a well-earned shower!). And just in time to finish off that week’s homework! The sun was shining once again, and spirits were high as the group made their way through Oxfordshire, catching glimpses of our city on their descent from Boar’s Hill, and finishing in style as they crossed Port Meadow under the midday sun—dodging (and sometimes stomping right into) cow patties and passing some very friendly horses.

In true DofE fashion, the cooking stayed remarkably similar to the practice expedition—students were adamant that if it worked once, there was no need to fix it. Pasta, noodles, and the odd culinary experiment made a reappearance, as did the trusty marshmallows. With a slightly easier route this time, students had plenty of energy to take part in lively games of football, American football, and frisbee late into the evening before being herded into their tents for some well-needed rest (for students and staff alike!). We're incredibly proud that every single student passed the expedition, and they should be equally proud of themselves—it was a brilliant achievement, filled with laughter, teamwork, and just the right amount of competitiveness, with many groups staking their claim to first place as they tumbled in together. Well done, Year 9!

Mr Vasy de la Cruz