First Expedition Trip for Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award Members

By Chiara R. and Vasilisa K., Grade 9

The beginning of a new adventure, starting with a trip to Oberammergau.  During the 20^th and 21^st of September, several 9^th graders persevered through challenges by overcoming their fears, learning new skills, and stepping out of their comfort zones on their first expedition for the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze (DofE) Award. 

There are several reasons why students joined Duke of Edinburgh.  

“That it sounded really fun. I wanted to be outdoors more and like do more activities. And also, I thought it would be a good chance to like to overcome my challenges,” Charlotte H. said. 

Joining the DofE looks good on university applications, but as Frau Stammerjohann pointed out that this should not be the main reason to join. 

“It’s a great learning experience. I like hiking, I like being outdoors (…),” said Stuart M. 

Team building is a key component of this programme. 

“For the first day we played a bunch of team-building activities because Duke of Edinburgh is about the team.”  said Charlotte H. 

During the trip to Oberammergau, the students were able to team build, which is also a huge component in Duke of Edinburgh. Duke of Edinburgh is an opportunity to learn and improve on your own skills and work with others.

“We learned how to use a compass, to read a map, how to give exact coordinates of where we are on a map, to call the police or something or an ambulance when you need it.” said Sophie G.F. 

The students also improved on their own skills by learning how to read a map, work with a compass and guide the group during a hike. This skill is essential, as in further excursions, they will be hiking on their own. This skill was already practiced on their practice hike, allowing these skills to be properly practiced.  

We wish the Duke of Edinburgh participants good luck and fun on their next expeditions. 
“I think it’s something you can really be proud of when you have gone through that, because it’s just not a walk in the park.”, quote from Frau Stammerjohann.