Stretford Grammar School celebrates the achievement of Year 10 pupils who have completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award. The cohort began their DofE journey during Year 9 and reached the final milestone during Active Learning Week in July, undertaking their qualifying expedition across the Peak District.

What the Bronze Award Entails

Earning a Bronze DofE Award demands commitment, self-discipline, and teamwork over several months. Participants complete four distinct sections:

• Volunteering: Giving time to support local community groups, charities, or school initiatives.
• Physical: Improving fitness and skill levels through sports, dance, or outdoor pursuits.
• Skills: Developing a new personal talent, interest, or vocational capability.
• Expedition: Planning, training for, and executing a two-day trek with an overnight camp.

Students work on their Volunteering, Physical, and Skills sections over three to six months, balancing these tasks alongside academic work.

The Peak District Expedition

The expedition section presents a test of navigation, endurance, and campcraft. During Active Learning Week in July, Year 10 groups travelled to the Peak District to put their training into practice. Teams carried full kit packs, plotted routes across rugged countryside, cooked meals on camp stoves, and spent the night under canvas.

School DofE Leader Mr Price praised the students for their determination throughout the process:

"Our Year 10 students displayed incredible resolve, maturity, and team spirit throughout their DofE journey. From starting their section activities in Year 9 to navigating the Peak District terrain in July, they proved themselves capable of overcoming real physical and mental challenges. We are proud of their accomplishments."

Gratitude to Sam Sykes Expeditions

Stretford Grammar School extends thanks to Sam Sykes Expeditions for delivering the expedition phase of the award.

Sam Sykes Expeditions is an accredited provider with decades of experience delivering outdoor adventure programmes across the UK and worldwide. The company provides professional safety management, top-tier equipment, and expert instructors who guide young people through navigation, campcraft, and outdoor survival skills. Their team ensured that Stretford Grammar students received the preparation and safety oversight necessary to navigate the Peak District with confidence.

Congratulations to all Year 10 participants on securing their Bronze Award!