Glossopdale School celebrates historic Gold DofE achievement

Five Glossopdale Sixth Form students have made school history by becoming the first team from the sixth form to undertake the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in more than 20 years.

Kiedis, Sophia, Jack, Tom and Lewis recently completed the expedition section of the prestigious award and presented their group project to the headteacher, governors and members of the senior leadership team. 

Their presentation highlighted the skills and experiences they had gained throughout the programme, as well as the resilience, teamwork and determination required to complete the challenge. 

The students’ Gold journey began with a demanding practice expedition in the Peak District during July’s intense heat, where they developed their navigation, camping and expedition skills while tackling challenging conditions. 

In September, they completed their qualifying expedition in the Lake District, embarking on a multi-day trek through some of England’s most spectacular scenery. 

Starting in the Langdale Valley, the group successfully summited Loughrigg Fell and Baystones before camping near Troutbeck. They then continued through Windermere and Grizedale, eventually finishing near Coniston. 

The expedition also provided a memorable birthday for Kiedis, who turned 18 on the second night away. While many might have opted for a party to mark the occasion, he spent his birthday trekking through pouring rain in the Lake District. 

Fortunately, a drying room at the end of the route allowed the team to dry out and prepare for the next day’s challenge. 

Throughout both expeditions, the students demonstrated commitment and determination, supporting one another through difficult weather, challenging terrain and long days of walking. Their success followed months of preparation and training. 

Their presentation to school leaders also gave them the opportunity to reflect on the wider benefits of the award, including the development of leadership, communication, problem-solving and independent living skills. 

The students shared the findings of their group project, which explored the impact of tourism in the Lake District. 

A spokesperson for Glossopdale Sixth Form said: " Congratulations to Kiedis, Sophia, Jack, Tom and Lewis on this remarkable accomplishment. Their achievement is a testament to their hard work and determination, and they have set a fantastic example for future Glossopdale students aspiring to complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award." 

The school now looks forward to celebrating the completion of the students’ full Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards in the coming months.