Everyone was greatly relieved that the forecast was set for fair weather as we loaded up the minibuses and fourteen hopeful LVIth Formers set off to pit themselves against the notoriously tough terrain of Mid-Wales. Five hours later (plus time for a brief return trip to school, when one group realised that they had left behind their maps and route cards!) we were happily ensconced at our base camp in Rhaeadr. Mr Peter Foulkes, our assessor, pitched up, briefed the chaps and set the tone for a gruelling four-day challenge.  His local knowledge proved invaluable in helping the groups tweak their planned routes and avoid some of the traps that the Cambrian Mountains can spring on the unwary.

 

The expedition proved tough for all participants, with everyone having moments when things got to them. However, team-work, training and determination (and sheer bloody mindedness?) saw the groups stagger in at the end of each day after ten or more hours of knackering cross-country trekking over trackless and navigationally challenging terrain. Fortunately the ground was drier than in previous years, but the infamous tussock grass proved as challenging as ever, particularly early on when packs were still loaded down with baked beans and porridge. 

 

Both groups had planned routes of just under one hundred kilometres and several thousand metres of ascent, but in the end, despite sore feet, aching muscles, midges and general fatigue, everyone made it to the finish near Staylittle to be told by Peter that they had passed. 

 

I hesitate to say that everyone enjoyed every moment, but they all seemed to find plenty in the experience which was positive. This was a genuine achievement for all the participants, and I would like to record how impressed I was with their determination, good humour and the superb way they looked after each other throughout the expedition. It would be difficult to find a better advertisement for the Award.

 

Dr Simon Young

Head of Outdoor Education