This year’s Silver Expedition took 112 intrepid Removes (Year 10) into the heart of the Brecon Beacons, Wales, for a three-day adventure filled with challenge, camaraderie, and unforgettable scenery.
Day One: Off to a Flying Start
The expedition began with a bleary-eyed but enthusiastic 6.40am breakfast. After fuelling up, pupils completed a swift kit check before boarding an impressive convoy of two coaches, three minibuses, and two nine-seaters. Spirits were high as the group set off for their starting points in Hay-on-Wye and Pengenffordd.
The weather was kind, and the first day’s route – shorter by design – allowed everyone to ease into the rhythm of expedition life. All groups successfully navigated back to camp, where tents were pitched and stoves fired up. The evening meal preparation proved to be one of the more “eventful” parts of the day – those who were there will know exactly what that means!
Over the last couple of years, numbers for the DofE Award have grown and grown, not just here at School, but nationally. No one knows for sure why this is, we all have our theories, but whatever the reason, it is wonderful that so many young people are starting to embrace and recognise this wonderful award and the advantages it can bring, both physically and mentally.
david martucci, outdoors activity manager
Day Two: Into the Clouds
An early rise greeted the campers with mist hanging low over the hills. Despite the chill, morale was high, buoyed by the promise of sunshine. Fourteen groups set off in search of the hills, and 5 stayed low, with many aiming to summit Lord Herefords. Their efforts were rewarded with a breathtaking cloud inversion – after a freezing ascent, pupils emerged into a surreal, sunlit world above the clouds. It was a moment of pure magic and a highlight of the expedition.
Day Three: The Final Push
The final day began with a frosty 6.00am wake-up call. Groups set off in opposite directions toward their respective endpoints: Llangorse and Llanthony. Some stormed through their final 13km, arriving with time to spare and earning a well-deserved reward of cheesy chips and hot food. The last group crossed the finish line at 4.00pm, showing incredible determination and grit to complete their journey.
This year’s expedition was expertly led by the ever-reliable Mr Casto, whose logistical wizardry ensured everything ran smoothly. A heartfelt thank you goes to the 18 dedicated staff members who gave their time, energy, and encouragement – without them, this trip simply wouldn’t have been possible.
Thank you to the pupils. We received countless compliments from members of the public about your kindness, politeness, and good humour on the hills. As Staff we were seriously impressed with the state you left the cooking barn and camping fields in this is major credit to you as a year group. You represented the school with pride, and we couldn’t be more impressed.
abigail higgins, head of biology
Here’s to another successful Silver Expedition – until next year! |
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