This term has seen hundreds of pupils complete their Duke of Edinburgh challenges and CCF training, which have been adapted due to Coronavirus restrictions.
Pupils working towards their Bronze, Silver and Gold DofE awards enjoyed a variety of expeditions including canoeing down the River Ouse, sailing in the Norfolk Broads, and cycling and walking around Rutland, the Peak District and the Trough of Bowland. The canoeists coped admirably with incredibly tough hot conditions and some even had the experience of paddling through a solar eclipse. The sailors learnt the fundamental aspects of sailing including quanting. The Gold cyclists enjoyed their journey cycling the Coast to Coast from Morecambe to Scarborough. The walkers and cyclists navigated their routes well, also managing the weather conditions. A few of the Silver cyclists even enjoyed a well deserved, if slightly unexpected, Christmas Dinner!
Meanwhile, CCF cadets carried out exercises in the School grounds and built on their military training at Buckingham Training Camp.
The number and variety of activities and expeditions organised and offered by Oakham School during this difficult time showcases the fantastic effort and energy form Oakham’s dedicated staff. Their hard work has meant the School has continued to give pupils the opportunity to achieve their Awards and develop qualities of teamwork, leadership, self-reliance, resourcefulness and responsibility.
Teacher of Geography and Expedition leader Mr Daniel Greenfield tells us more about the Bronze Cycling Challenge.
“After a successful training day around Rutland the Bronze cyclists travelled to Shropshire confident ahead of the qualifying expedition. As they prepared to depart on Thursday morning, the weather was kind to them, and they left in dry conditions. Now carrying all their equipment, the two groups found the hills challenging but persevered up some climbs that were several kilometres long. After nearly seven hours in the saddle both groups successfully arrived at their camp for Thursday night. Again, the weather was good and both groups set off early on the final day of their expedition. They were met immediately by the toughest challenge of the expedition; a four-half kilometre climb to the top of the Long Mynd. Although made it to the top and rewarded with great views across England and Wales. After a long descent, the boys continued for another four hours until successfully completing the expedition. All the cyclists should be proud of the effort and determination that they showed at the end of a long year.”
