Silver DofE Expedition

Over the weekend, five of our pupils completed their Silver Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) practice expedition, marking a significant achievement for the group of pupils who took part in the three-day experience from Thursday 26th June to Saturday 28th June. This was our first ever Silver expedition.

The tailored expedition offered pupils a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, build independence, and work as a team—all core elements of the DofE programme.

The adventure began with a visit to the historic Hampton Court Palace, where pupils explored the grounds and learned about its royal history. They returned to school in the evening to set up their own tents in the PE hall and prepare their dinner on barbecues in the playground. With music, games, and films, the evening was filled with fun.

On Friday, the group ventured out again—this time to London Zoo, where they explored all the different animals. They once again returned to school for another night of camping indoors, showing growing confidence in setting up tents, preparing meals, and supporting one another.

The expedition concluded on Saturday morning, after two nights of overnight stays and days full of activity and learning.

We are so incredibly proud of our pupils for their enthusiasm, teamwork, and resilience throughout the experience. The expedition was carefully planned to ensure accessibility and enjoyment for all involved, and the success of the event reflects the commitment to providing inclusive opportunities that inspire personal growth and achievement.

The school extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff who supported the pupils and to the families for their encouragement throughout the process. This accomplishment marks an important milestone in each student's DofE journey and is a proud moment for the entire Heron Academy community.