Gold D of E Practice Expedition: Yorkshire Dales

By Ivy & Kanzi
In our first week back after the summer half term, our group embarked on an unforgettable Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award practice expedition—an incredible opportunity to create memories we will all cherish.

Setting off with anticipation and determination, we tackled rugged terrain that took us through rolling hills, across rivers, and alongside sheep-dotted fields, with the dramatic backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales all around us. Each day brought new challenges, from navigating with maps and compasses to cooking meals on jet boils and pitching tents in unpredictable weather. It demanded resilience, teamwork, and a good sense of humour.

Evenings were just as memorable—spent battling the cold, resting sore feet, and waking up to rainy mornings with a renewed sense of accomplishment. Our instructors struck the perfect balance: offering support while encouraging us to operate independently, replicating the conditions of our final assessed expedition.

By the end, we were exhausted and muddy, but immensely proud. The experience tested us in unexpected ways and has left us feeling more than ready for our next challenge in the Lake District.