4 members of staff and 14 students embarked on the Academy's first Silver DofE practice expedition over the weekend of 15-17 April.

The students had spent many hours training and now was the time to put their knowledge and skills to the test. We started off in Holt Country Park, where it soon became apparent that maps do not necessarily accurately reflect the terrain and paths of wooded or heathland areas! Another challenge presented itself in the case of the disappearing footpaths, which had been planted over by farmers. However, the students rose to the occasion and valiantly continued on their way. 

The weather was a rather mixed bag of overcast, windy, sunny, hot, cold, all of which proved the necessity for packing for all weather eventualities, although the rain was very kind to us and did not make an appearance, apart from overnight, which did affect the ability to have a good night's sleep. We also had rather noisy neighbours in two very vocal sheep camping at the bottom of our site.

The expeditions continued, with each team facing its own challenges, and navigation skills were definitely put through their paces. 

There were many natural and man-made feature for the students to observe and record on their journeys. The expeditions finished at Sheringham Park, with all students accounted for. Overall the experience was very positive, and did its job in terms of a practice expedition, highlighting areas which need more practice before the qualifying expeditions later in the year.

Much fun was had along the way and the teams and their supervisors developed good working relationships.

A huge thank you to all the students and staff involved.