Open Bronze DofE Expedition

How far are we walking / how long will it take?

Each day on a Bronze Expedition must encompass a minimum of 6 hours activity each day - That's not including anything at camp, but is including rest breaks, lunch, and working towards team goals. Usually, this results in journeys averaging around 10-12km (6-8 miles) - Although the occasional navigational error may add to this!

We find most teams easily manage to complete each day in just over 6 hours at a comfortable pace.

Will I be sharing a tent?

For our Expeditions, we use 3-person tents, so anticipate sharing with a maximum of 2 other people of the same gender. We will always endeavour to ensure friends are tented together, permitting they are the same gender, so please let us know if you are booking on with someone you know.

We understand sharing a tent with someone you don't know can be daunting - The experience is all part of the adventure, and there'll be plenty of time to get to know one another before camping. Our staff will be on the same campsite should anyone need any support, even if just for a chat.

What if I don't know anyone on the Expedition?

This is a common worry, and something we come across regularly on the Expeditions we run for our full DofE Award Participants - Even when working with other Centres such as schools, we find there are always people who are teamed up with others they don't know. The important thing is to remember that everyone is there for the same purpose - To complete their Expedition and have a memorable time doing so. Our Assessors are always nearby (even if you can't see them) and will regularly check in to ensure everyone is included, taking part, and achieving their goals!

Will I have my phone?

No - Trust us, you won't need it! We have always operated under a no phones / electronics policy, in line with the DofE guidance. We will provide you with an emergency phone / radio to use as a group in case you need us, but experience has demonstrated that most participants appreciate the time away from their devices and enjoy being able to talk to one another, engage with nature, and relax on camp. Besides - Where we're going, you're not likely to have signal anyway!

How will I keep in touch with my child whilst they're on your Expedition?

We understand that Expeditions can be as nerve-wracking for parents / carers as they can be for participants. We operate under the policy of 'no news is good news'. Naturally, we'll be in touch straight away if we need to organise medical care or a deferral occurs, and we'll update arrival times as soon as we can reasonably tell how the groups are progressing.

We're more than happy to differentiate where needs be to accommodate folk, though, and can discuss individual needs on a case-by-case basis. Overall, however, we find most participants thrive under the conditions of self-sufficiency and support them to this end.