13 June 2019
Twenty girls set off from Woldingham on the Friday of half term for their Silver Duke of Edinburgh practice expedition. On arrival in the New Forest, they checked their kit and planned their route before walking about 8 km to their first campsite.
There was another early start on Saturday. The day was hot and sunny, meaning their 15 km walk to the next campsite, carrying all of their kit, was a real test of endurance. A well-earned early night was on the agenda, before the longest walk of the trip on Sunday - 17 km, for those who kept to the route! The three groups arrived over the course of a couple of hours at their final destination, a popular picnic venue near a deer sanctuary. They were, understandably, feeling quite tired! By chance, we were spotted by a Woldingham Old Girl, who came up to say hello and congratulate the girls on their achievement.
After a debriefing and discussion about what they need to work on for their assessed expedition at the end of term, we embarked on a rather slower motorway journey back to Woldingham. We are looking forward to the assessed expedition on the South Downs in July, along with the volunteering, physical and skills sections, to complete their Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Mrs Fiona Payne
