Duke of Edinburgh Expedition Updates
Back to Latest News22/05/2026 14:00
And they're done! All groups have successfully completed their expedition and returned safely to camp! They started two days ago on a cold, windy field and have finished in a blaze of sunshine!
All groups did really well and demonstrated excellent teamwork throughout!
Well done to all our DofE pupils and students!
22/05/2026 11:30
After an early start this morning to beat the heat of the day all groups are make good progress on their final day of their expedition. Spirits are high and with the end in sight they are powering on and enjoying their walk in the sunshine. Only one more check point to go!
21/05/2026 22:30
As the sun sets on Day 2 of our Duke of Edinburgh expedition.
We have to admire the sheer tenacity and determination shown by all of our DofE students today. The Essex sunshine was blistering, but our Drapers’ students battled on through the intense heat with resilience, teamwork, and incredible spirit.
After a long and demanding day across the Essex countryside, campsites will soon be filled with the sound of well-earned rest — and probably a few snores too!
Day 3 now awaits, and it will truly test the students’ mental, emotional, and physical strength. We could not be more proud of everything they have achieved so far.
Bring on the third and final day!
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #Resilience #Teamwork #OutdoorAdventure #DrapersProud
21/05/2026 19:30
Half Way Point.
Paper Mill Lock provided the perfect backdrop for the halfway point of Day 2 on our Duke of Edinburgh expedition.
Students enjoyed some well-earned rest in the shade and the opportunity to refuel with lunch before continuing on the next stage of their journey.
With the sun now shining brightly, our Bronze, Silver, and Gold groups continue to do brilliantly — showing fantastic resilience, teamwork, and positivity throughout the expedition.
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #OutdoorAdventure #Teamwork #Navigation #PaperMillLock
21/05/2026 11:30
First checkpoint completed successfully for our Bronze, Silver, and Gold groups! Water bottles refilled, sun cream applied, and students are now off on the second leg of their journey across the Essex countryside.
Team morale remains high, navigation has been spot on, and the stunning scenery has provided the perfect backdrop for another fantastic day on expedition.
Excellent resilience, teamwork, and determination continue to be shown by all students as they take on the challenge of walking solo.
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #OutdoorAdventure #Navigation #Teamwork #EssexCountryside
21/05/2026 10:00
Our Gold, Silver, and Bronze groups were up bright and early this morning after a lovely night’s sleep under canvas.
With a belly full of porridge, bags packed, and spirits high, students set off for their first day of walking solo — putting all of their navigation, teamwork, and expedition skills into practice across the Essex countryside.
A huge well done to all students for the positivity and resilience they have shown so far. We look forward to seeing how they get on throughout the day!
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #OutdoorAdventure #Navigation #Teamwork #Expedition
20/05/2026 19:00
As the sun sets on Day 1 of our Duke of Edinburgh expedition.
Our Bronze, Silver, and Gold students are now preparing dinner and settling in for an early night after a fantastic first day of camp craft, navigation, and camp cooking.
There has been brilliant teamwork, resilience, and enthusiasm throughout the day, and everyone should be proud of what they have achieved so far.
Now it’s time for some well-earned rest before another exciting day tomorrow. Let’s hope for a good night’s sleep and a great second day ahead!
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #CampCraft #OutdoorLearning #Teamwork #Adventure
20/05/2026 15:10
First break of the day for our Silver and Gold groups.
Students stopped at a beautiful spot beside a small stream to enjoy some well-earned shade on this warm summer day and refuel before setting off on the next leg of the expedition.
Navigation has been flawless so far, with excellent teamwork and confidence shown throughout the route. Now let’s hope they can guide us safely back to the campsite!
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #OutdoorAdventure #Navigation #Teamwork #EssexCountryside
20/05/2026 13:30
The expedition begins!
The first leg of the walk is now underway as our Bronze, Silver, and Gold Duke of Edinburgh groups navigate their way across the Essex countryside.
Students are putting their skills into practice with compass bearings, map reading, and route planning as they work together to stay on course throughout the expedition.
A brilliant start with fantastic teamwork, resilience, and determination already on show!
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #NavigationSkills #OutdoorAdventure #Teamwork #EssexCountryside
20/05/2026 12:30
Day 1 of our Duke of Edinburgh expedition and what a fantastic start!
Mr Burke led an excellent Camp Craft session with our DofE students today. Tents are up, cooking equipment has been checked and prepared, and everyone is ready to head out on their first navigation walk.
Great teamwork, enthusiasm, and effort from all involved — an amazing first day!
We will keep you posted on our walk.
#DofE #DukeOfEdinburgh #CampCraft #Teamwork #OutdoorLearning #Adventure
