Silver Duke of Edinburgh Practice Journey

In Term 2, Week 8, our Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award students completed their Practice Adventurous Journey. This year there were over 60 students, which is one of our largest groups. The lower Blue Mountains area around Glenbrook was selected for this 2 day event. Overnight the students camped at the Euroka Clearing campsite during a chilly 4˚C night.

The students were conducting an exploration of the area to develop their navigation skills. Over two days the four different walking groups participated in an orienteering route and a goal focused mission to find Dadder Cave. However, the main objective of the Practice Hike is to allow for reflection on the planning and walking process, so that a longer qualifying journey can be undertaken safely. While Dadder Cave remained unfound, students developed a range of skills in track awareness, and greater confidence with map and compass navigation skills. There were also some important considerations to be made about meal planning, safety and the equipment students bought. With these important lessons in mind, students will be attempting their Qualifying Adventurous Journey walk over 3 days and 2 nights. The qualifying walk will take place in Term 4, Week 9.

I would also like to extend an enormous thank you to Ms Fluitsma, Mr O’Neill and Ms Jenkyn for their attendance and support with the hike. 

David Latimer

Silver Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator

These photos are also available on the school website.