King Edward's Bath

Students battle through dreadful weather for Gold expedition in the Brecon Beacons

Whilst Bath and most of the country were basking in sunshine, 23 Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award students from KES were walking in wind and rain on the top of the Brecon Beacons.

They started at base camp in beautiful weather, but soon realised how quickly it can change when you climb up into the hills, which were shrouded in cloud. It was extremely wet and visibility very poor. The groups demonstrated some excellent navigation skills in these testing conditions, finding their way through the mist to their campsites. They walked for four days carrying all their kit, camping at farms overnight.

Mrs. Crouch and Mr. Chris Horobin, their Assessor, would like to say well done to all the participants who did exceptionally well in at times very difficult conditions, their team spirit and good humour were great.

Easter Gold Expedition to the Peak Distrcit

Congratulations to all Duke of Edinburgh participants who successfully completed their Gold expedition in the Peak District during the Easter holidays.

This was the largest Gold expedition to take place so far, with twenty six participants. The pupils walked for four days, sometimes for 11 hours a day, carrying all their food and camping gear for the expedition. The terrain they covered was varied and at times tough, crossing peat bogs and during some steep climbs. The weather was dry, but cold with snow still present in the hollows on the hill tops.

Three of the group successfully completed their Assessed expedition. The remainder had a highly successful practice and are travelling to the Brecon Beacons during Activities week in June for their assessed expedition.

The first KES Gold Award was received by Peter Bennett, now at Medical School in London, in March. Alan Bowman and Nora Spicer, both in Year 13, have also completed their Gold Awards. This is a real achievement to have completed all sections of this prestigious award whilst still at school. Claire Bowman has successfully completed her Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.