Our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s group have now successfully completed their first practice expedition. Mr Taylor, our DofE manager, accompanied our intrepid young people on their adventure..

Monsal Trail Bronze Practice Expedition 2/3 April 2019

The New Bridge Duke of Edinburgh’s expedition season started this week with a group of 23 students backpacking along the Monsal Trail in the Peak District, Derbyshire..

The route follows a disused and refurbished railway track linking a series of scenic limestone valleys between Blackwell and Bakewell..

A few variations in the route allowed for more challenging environments to be gained, as well as other historical aspects to be explored..

The long dark train tunnels provided opportunity for a further challenge during a night walk..

The journey began very cool and windy with groups experiencing some fairly blustery snow flurries and hailstones. As distance was gained, the weather eased and at times even showed some hints of sunshine. The pace was positive and purposeful despite each student carrying a packed rucksack. Teamwork was in abundance as groups supported and chivvied each other on throughout the day..

Arriving at the campsite, the weary travellers had further challenges as they worked in teams to put up the tents which were to be their homes for the night..

..and also to prepare their own food on camp stoves..

A well-earned sleep followed the night walk, the last challenge of the day. Day 2 started slowly as students eased themselves from their sleeping bags and began preparing breakfasts, before the task of packing up wet tents full of moisture from the damp night before..

A shorter walk to the old station at Bakewell completed the journey..

..where the relief and joy of completing the route was greeted with chip butties and transport home!

Well done to everyone who took part – this was a really positive and enjoyable experience practice despite a difficult start due to the weather.

Gavin Taylor
DofE Manager

Well done everyone, what a brilliant achievement!!! We’re extremely grateful to all our fantastic staff for supporting our young people and making the expedition possible – we’re sure they’ll be very relieved to put their boots away….for a few weeks! Hopefully the weather will be a bit warmer next time.

You can view all the pictures of the expedition in our Facebook album here and you can find out more about the DofE Award Scheme at New Bridge here and read about all our previous expeditions.