Writes Jason Firestone, Director of Outdoor Education
On Thursday 26th March, eight intrepid explorers arrived at school to prepare for their Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award training and practice expedition in the Isle of Purbeck.
Day One
In preparation for the expedition, the boys completed a menu planning exercise before visiting the local Tesco in Rickmansworth to purchase the supplies required to be fully self-sufficient during their three-day adventure.
We then travelled by minibus down to the Isle of Purbeck, arriving at Corfe Castle. Following a short session on orientating themselves using key landmarks, the two teams set off on a 10km walk with Mr Firestone and Mr Shirley. This provided an opportunity to develop the groups’ basic map and compass skills, whilst taking in the spectacular views across the Purbeck Hills.
Upon arrival at the campsite, the participants were taught how to pitch their tents efficiently and cook safely using trangia stoves. They then put these skills into practice, working collaboratively to prepare their evening meals and pitch their tents, ensuring they were properly sheltered for the impending stormy night.
Day Two
Despite a slightly uncomfortable night’s sleep, the groups were up early and gradually set about striking their tents, cooking breakfast, and preparing for the first full day of the practice expedition, before being driven to the start point.
The groups set off with Mr Shirley on the first leg of the route towards St Aldhelm’s Chapel. On arrival, they were given a guided tour of the Coastwatch Lookout Station by the volunteers on duty, who explained their role in monitoring coastal waters. Pupils also learned about the key differences between maritime charts and land-based maps, providing a valuable link between navigation skills in different environments.
Mr Firestone led the second leg of the route, encouraging the boys to develop strategies for confirming their location and intended destination by relating features on the map to the landscape around them, and vice versa.
Heavy rain persisted throughout much of the day, which certainly tested both morale and determination. By early evening, it was a relief to arrive at the campsite after a demanding day walking along sections of the newly renamed King Charles III England Coast Path, before heading inland across numerous fields. Although exhausted, the groups remained in good spirits, enjoying a well-deserved evening meal before settling down to another night under canvas.
Day Three
After an early start and a quick breakfast, the group set off promptly on the final leg of the expedition. Motivation was high, knowing that the minibus would be waiting at the finish point.
The final day’s route was completed as an unaccompanied walk with remote supervision, providing the boys with the opportunity to work independently as teams and collaboratively solve the navigation challenges they encountered along the way.
The final steep ascent to the viewpoint within the Lulworth Ranges proved particularly demanding, and the group was understandably tired by the time they reached the top. However, their efforts were rewarded with impressive views across the English Channel towards the Isle of Wight.
Overall, the three days presented a significant challenge, but the groups worked effectively together, demonstrating resilience, cooperation, and some steadily improving expedition skills. It was encouraging to see the boys reflect positively on both their achievements and learning. Hot showers, home cooked meals, and creature comforts were certainly more appreciated on their return home, and they can now look forward with confidence to their assessed expedition.
