International School Augsburg: School newsletter reported on first Award expeditions

On Saturday 21st May until Sunday 22nd May, the Grade 11 class participated in our first ever expedition as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE). Having had a practice expedition in Wellenburg two weeks ago (see newsletter from 22nd May), the students were well prepared for the “real” thing.

The students told us how the practice helped them prepare for the expedition, not only in regard with what to bring (equipment), but also they were mentally prepared for the weekend. Any “mistakes” made on the practice were rectified for the expedition and the students finished with a real sense of accomplishment. For us as teachers, it was so nice to see the students huddled around their cookers, preparing their evening meal, or to see them helping each other along the way with words of encouragement, sharing duties (cooking, navigating, setting up tents etc). Students benefit individually and also as positive group members. Well done Grade 11!

The expedition is only one part of the DofE. Throughout this year, Grade 11 students have also been involved in the other three parts of the award. These involve a fitness activity, a creative/talent activity and a service activity, which they need to regularly be involved in over a period of 3-6 months, depending on the activity. For example, this could be a student volunteering to be a LAP mentor, learning the piano and joining our Friday morning fitness club at 7.45 am every Friday.

The DofE Award has 3 levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold. As we have only begun this school year, we are offering the Bronze level. Some Grade 11 students have already begun asking what the requirements are for the Silver level, which is a very positive sign!