Bronze Expedition brings the best out of Year 9
Rydal Penrhos is a Directly Licensed Centre for the popular Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and offers all three levels of the prestigious programme.
This begins with Bronze in Year 9, continuing on to Silver in Years 10-11, and culminating with the coveted Gold Award in Years 12-13 and a trip to a Royal venue if they are successful.
Many pupils have gone on to achieve this feat in recent years. This is thanks to their exceptional dedication throughout the initiative and the expert guidance and support they receive from DofE co-ordinator Dr Jim Lewis and other incredible staff at the school.
The latest batch of Year 9 hopefuls have hit the ground running in their pursuit of Bronze in recent weeks despite COVID-19 restrictions making things more difficult than usual over the academic year.
This is something that has been prevalent throughout their academic studies and extra-curricular opportunities, with Rydal Penrhos providing a robust online provision during the educational lockdowns that ensured no loss of learning took place in such uncertain times.
It was a busy end of the summer term for DofE candidates once the Welsh Government relaxed restrictions surrounding trips and expeditions. This is something the school was fully prepared for, enabling a plan of action to be put into place quickly before pupils and staff headed off on their deserved summer break.
Year 9 took part in their own expedition over a two-day period, which saw them participate in various different activities that tested their ability to communicate, work well within a team and problem-solve as a group to achieve their objectives.
Each pupil rose to the challenge incredibly well. Staff were also alongside them every step of the way with advice, encouragement or additional support was needed at any stage.
In addition to picking up notable awards throughout the DofE provision, pupils also get to assist within the community, improve physical conditioning, discover new talents and boost existing key skills that stand the test of time both in higher education and later life.
A huge well done to Year 9 for their efforts during the expedition. Enjoy your summer break!