23 April 2024
Clara J, Lower Sixth
Our Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) practice expedition in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, Wales was an adventure filled with challenges and unforgettable moments. Under the guidance of Mrs Wiseman and our instructor, who supported us throughout, our group journeyed through stunning landscapes, pushing ourselves both physically and mentally.
The first day began with a cooked breakfast and an equipment check to ensure we had everything we needed for the next three nights and four days. Then, carrying our heavy rucksacks, we walked around 16 kilometres each day, navigating through picturesque locations, including Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, which made the entire expedition worthwhile.
Despite the physical demands, reaching our campsite at the end of each day brought a sense of accomplishment fuelling our determination to keep going. My highlights were lunch breaks atop the mountains, where we laughed about the most random things, and the times we encountered and supported fellow DofE groups from other schools. Along the way, I further developed important qualities such as resilience, teamwork skills, and outdoor skills.
Overall, my Gold DofE experience was a journey of personal growth. Stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges has left me with unforgettable memories and a sense of achievement. I look forward to the qualifying expedition in the summer with my amazing group members!
