The Duke of Edinburgh programme at LAE has gone from strength to strength over the last two years with the number of participants doubling to 40.   Students taking part can develop significant skills which boost their confidence, foster resilience and teach them how to work effectively together as a team.  

Over the Coronation Bank Holiday weekend, 38 LAE students took part in the DofE Silver Award Practice Expedition in the Chiltern Hills. This group will be going to the Brecon Beacons in July to complete their Silver Award and then they will have the option to go for Gold in Year 13 or at University. 

Students were exhilarated by their participation and enjoyed facing new and occasionally tough situations while developing new skills:

“The trip was incredible! I developed my physical abilities and endurance and got to be surrounded by nature for 3 days! It was thoroughly enjoyable.” 

“I loved the experience. I haven't walked in the countryside like that before, but I enjoyed it even though it was tiring. The team worked well together and sharing laughs made everything easier as well as cooking and setting up tents together. Sleeping in the tent was also better than expected. I enjoyed most the walking portion along with navigating. Only downside was the rain on the first day in which we walked and set up tents while raining but that strengthened our discipline.” 

“I found the DofE experience very positive and look forward to doing the second expedition. The trip was very motivating as I was able to learn to work as a team and navigate.”   

“The DofE trip had the perfect balance of difficulty and enjoyment; we had the challenging task of hiking far distances with heavy backpacks and making meals with alien equipment, but our teamwork and spirit made it a fun experience. We also gained vital life skills.​” 

We are delighted that, through developing their expedition skills, and even in inclement weather, our students are able to work together to take care of themselves well.