50TH UAE NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

On the February 3rd, eighteen adventurous students embarked on their last ever trip with the qualifying gold expedition, which saddened many as the memories and fun had during the past five trips flooded back and students realised this was the last opportunity to make more. Sadness didn’t last long, however, as we were thrown into the thrilling journey, navigating, walking and singing with music from checkpoint to checkpoint.

The first two walks were very generous, both being on flat and familiar ground yet that didn’t stop some from losing their bearings, combined with the weight of our bags and heat of midday, the trip was never easy. And let’s hope you didn’t forget your water bottle! The next days were much harder, each being mountain climbs and longer walks that the students dreaded, yet in true Duke of Edinburgh spirit everyone completed both, never giving up or letting injuries hinder them. Unlike prior expeditions, we participated in activities between walks, with opportunities to rock climb and abseil throughout, which were a blast and emphasised the uniqueness and special nature of this last trip. To top it off, we were treated to pizza on the last night! After days of eating undercooked rice, crushed bread and instant foods, it was heavenly, fuelling us for the picturesque hike on the final day where everyone got their best Insta pictures and an amazing view of the area.

Mrs Sheileen Turner Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator

Congratulations to Lorcan Y13 who has recently passed his International Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. Lorcan has shown dedication and commitment throughout the past year and his hard work has paid off.

To complete Gold, Lorcan fulfilled the requirements of volunteering, practising a skill and a physical activity. As well as this, Lorcan spent a week in Ireland completing his residential, and spent four days hiking the Hatta mountains.

Completing Gold Duke of Edinburgh is a very impressive feat, and as his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Leader, I am extremely proud of Lorcan. Well done, Lorcan! #dcproud

Mrs Sheileen Turner Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator