Year 9 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Navigation Training

Year 9 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh students took part in two highly successful navigation training days last term, developing essential map‑reading and route‑planning skills in the Quantock Hills. During the mornings, students tackled longer walking routes, learning how to break journeys into manageable sections between known points. In the afternoons, smaller groups completed micro‑navigation exercises around Dowsborough Hill Fort, building confidence, teamwork, and independence. The students showed great focus and resilience throughout, finishing both days with a clear sense of achievement as their navigation skills progressed.

These days would not have been possible without our team of staff volunteers who gave up their time to support the D of E programme. Thank you to Mrs Hannaford, Mr Tracey, Mrs West, Miss Smith, Miss Knott, Mr Davidson, Mr James, Mr Jones, Mr Tourle, Mr Darby, and Mr Owen, as well as Silver DofE student Piper who volunteered her time. 

It is a busy term coming up for our DofE Programme with lots of exciting adventures still to come. Here are the key dates: 

• Silver Practice expedition (2) -  Friday 15 May to Sunday 17 May

• Bronze Assessment expedition - Saturday 6 June to Sunday 7 June

• Silver Assessment expedition (1) - Saturday 20 June to Monday 22 June

• Silver Assessment expedition (2) - Saturday 18 July to Monday 20 July

• DofE presentation evening for Year 9s and Year 11s - Tuesday 14 July