37 intrepid explorers left Ranmore Common near Dorking on Friday morning on the first leg of their Bronze Qualification Expedition phase of their DofE Award. Divided into 6 groups they were hoping to avoid a repeat of the thoroughly damp conditions ‘enjoyed’ during their Practice Expedition of last term. In fact, they experienced two warm days, separated by a very fresh (but at least) dry night at Henfold Lakes campsite. The groups all successfully managed to find checkpoints crossing railways and busy roads, albeit some were steadier than others - no problem about that, all were ‘home’ in daylight on both days!

The expeditions are about team performances, with members supporting each other through some physically (and spiritually) challenging moments at times. That said, a sense of urgency, resilience and humour was displayed by a number of individuals, just a few examples including the hammocking pair of Oscar B (making up for musical injuries) and Oisin W (sporting his last long hair before being shorn for school-photo purposes). Daisy M, Milly B, Bella R-B, Tom S, Arthur B displaying acute map-reading skills (or lucky guesses). Issy F somehow fell out of a tree near Box Hill, luckily without injury, I’m still unsure how that route was worked out. All managed to find their way back to their own tents after some gentle persuasion while much boiled pasta (and boiled sweets) appeared to fuel the majority. They were shepherded through the whole experience by by Mr Wyllie and I throughout, also supported overnight by the ever-cheerful pairing of Miss Anand and Mr Usher, and at checkpoints by Mrs Punter and Miss Walpole. We enjoyed a campsite visit by Mr and Mrs Knox and were ably helped by Mrs Sarjant and Mr Hanby regarding medical training/supplies and catering as appropriate. Very well done indeed to all concerned and I hope to see a good few for Silver........

Mr Lodge