Over the weekend of 24 & 25 May, 84 Year 9 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh participants set off on their practice expedition – and what an expedition it was. Starting in Long Hanborough and finishing at Hill End campsite, our pupils faced rain, mud, mysterious food choices and the occasional navigational hiccup with resilience and good humour.

Day one saw some creative map reading from a few groups (we won’t name names), and by hour two, Rui was already dreaming of KFC. Despite this, spirits stayed high thanks to expert guidance from Mr Maddox, Mrs Masterson, and our outstanding sixth form leaders Katie L and Louie W, whose patience, encouragement and snack supplies were truly heroic.

Tent construction became a spectator sport – particular mention must go to Fin and Chris for their avant-garde approach (lying on the inner instead of putting it up?) – while dinner menus ranged from the practical to the peculiar. Theo McK’s “raw beans” offering may not make it to MasterChef anytime soon. Wildlife also joined in, with Santi earning the title of ‘Bird Whisperer’ when a bird literally landed on him mid-field.

Not even the early hours were safe from adventure: Theo’s 5:30am vocal performance ensured no one accidentally slept in, while James H’s only real concern throughout was whether his joggers would survive the expedition.

Despite the challenges, every student passed with flying colours – proving once again that teamwork, determination (and perhaps a tolerance for raw beans) can overcome anything.