RGS DofE http://dofe.posterous.com Check DofE news here posterous.com Mon, 07 May 2012 10:11:00 -0700 Bronze training expedition May 6-7 2012 http://dofe.posterous.com/bronze-training-expedition-may-6-7-2012 http://dofe.posterous.com/bronze-training-expedition-may-6-7-2012

14 groups completed their Bronze training hikes. Sunday was cold, grey and showery, overnight temperatures fell to near freezing and most had a chilly night. Monday dawned bright and groups set off on their own to tackle the last stretch. Navigation was generally sound and most errors corrected quickly, apart from some notable exceptions on Day2! Camp craft, leaving no trace and keeping facilities clean was accomplished to a good standard by most groups after some reminders. Few items were forgotten and rucksacks were mostly sensibly packed. Overall, a good hike with a spirited performance from everyone in unusually cold May weather.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:54:00 -0700 Conservation Day March 2012 http://dofe.posterous.com/conservation-day-march-2012 http://dofe.posterous.com/conservation-day-march-2012
Twenty three 3rd Year Bronze students did their first conservation day on the hottest day of the year so far.  We visited Mercers Park and cleared invasive willow and scrub from the banks of a brook.  Students also got wet and muddy clearing a choked stream full of logs and junk.  They did an excellent job on their first time out doing conservation.  RGS Staff and RACV volunteers were pleased with their commitment to some hard work and willingness to learn some new skills.  Well done!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:56:00 -0800 Conservation Day December 2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/conservation-day-december-2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/conservation-day-december-2011
Redhill Common: north slope at the pond site. 30 students cleared scrub and trees from the north side of the pond.  A significant area was cleared and they all worked hard and with enthusiasm.  Small branches were burned and log piled up for collection. This task follows on from previous visits to open out this area and reinstate a grassland surrounding the pond which itself is planned for restoration in the future.  Clearance of trees and scrub might at first appear destructive but it increases habitat diversity for various plants and animals along the forest edges created.  Edge habitats are often more productive and the grassland will encourage new birds, insects and small mammmals, as well as bats.  The glade will also provide a more attractive environment for people walking through the woods.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Fri, 28 Oct 2011 01:46:32 -0700 GOLD training expedition South Wales october 2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/gold-training-expedition-south-wales-october http://dofe.posterous.com/gold-training-expedition-south-wales-october Location South Wales, Dan Yr Ogof camp.  Weather: mixed sunshine and some hail showers, nice rainbows, then rain and low cloud.  On day one 7 groups undertook more than 8 hours of navigation and safety training around the limestone scenery below the ridge of Fan Hir on the Black Mountain.  Spot the shake holes! Then their 2 day independent trek took them over the main 600 metre+ ridge and then down to Cross Inn.  Final day saw a climb up "the nose" and thence along a valley bench in cloud: tricky navigation at times.  All groups performed really well and staff were impressed with the spirited and cheerful team work that held up despite some miserable weather: we were pleased to see happy faces emerging on the bus home.  Well done folks! I'll confirm qualifying expedition dates 2012 v soon but I am hoping to offer Easter AND August (clash with biology ft), but that'll be all for 2012: details next half term. 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Sun, 23 Oct 2011 10:04:00 -0700 Staff training trip http://dofe.posterous.com/dofe-staff-training-trip http://dofe.posterous.com/dofe-staff-training-trip
via youtube.com
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October half term saw Mr Collins and Mr Hadley doing a Mountain Rescue Emergency First Aid (REC) course with Snowdonia First Aid from Llanberis Mountain rescue team.  The course was extremely useful but we hope never to have to put any of our new skills into action.

Staff training takes place regularly and includes professional development in navigation and first aid.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:26:00 -0700 GOLD pre-hike safety briefing http://dofe.posterous.com/gold-pre-hike-safety-briefing http://dofe.posterous.com/gold-pre-hike-safety-briefing

Gold training expeditions include instruction in the following:

  • navigation: compass and 1:25,000 maps
  • emergency procedures & getting help
  • correct equipment
  • camp safety
Instruction on the pre-hike briefing will be issued the evening before the first training day. 

GOLD_Pre-hike_briefing.pdf Download this file

 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Sat, 15 Oct 2011 03:59:00 -0700 Bronze qualifying expeditions October 2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/bronze-qualifying-expeditions-october-2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/bronze-qualifying-expeditions-october-2011
100 students completed their qualifying canoe and backpack expeditions 7-8 October.  Canoe groups completed their adventure down the Medway canoe trail.  Backpacking groups walked around the North Downs area near Reigate.  We were especially impressed with the positive spirit and cheerful manner of many groups.  Despite some navigation errors and a few groups being caught in the dark, the quality of overall planning was good and campcraft encouraging (sites were left with no trace of our visit: that's the aim!). Well done and thanks to all the staff who made this big trip possible.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Mon, 03 Oct 2011 12:25:00 -0700 It's not summer any more!? http://dofe.posterous.com/dofe-stuff-this-week http://dofe.posterous.com/dofe-stuff-this-week
The recent heatwave is fading: expect a return to normal unsettled autumnal weather.
What ever expedition you are doing this October you need to be prepared for everything:

Basics:
  • Don't forget the Big 5! 
  • Remember route cards & maps ALL in waterproof map cases.
  • Check your tents: check them by putting them up BEFORE the hike
  • Food: organise who is taking what food
  • Clothing: waterproof jacket and trousers: is yours good enough? Bring enough warm clothes and one spare set of dry.
  • Boots: adequate footwear is essential. Avoid blisters at all costs.
  • Reflective gear: in case you get caught out in the dark!
  • Consult the kit list and chapter on equipment in the RGS expedition manual (also available on this site: Expedition Training page)
Check the training pages and videos on this blog for more advice.

You need to hope for the best weather (i.e. sunny, calm beautiful autumn sunshine, with cool evenings) but be absolutely prepared for the WORST (i.e. howling gales, lashing rain, cold during the day and stormy at night ... i.e. really nasty!)  

For Gold groups: it is common for conditions to deteriorate up high this time of year, so do prepare warm clothing for cold / wet conditions in the mountains.

It's often like this ... a  typical wet autumn morning taking tents down ... don't be surprised by weather like this at this time of year... get prepared.
P1000627-1.wmv Watch on Posterous

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:42:00 -0700 Gold qualifying expedition July 10-14 2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/gold-qualifying-expedition-july-10-14-2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/gold-qualifying-expedition-july-10-14-2011
Mid-Wales: Plynlimon mountain, near Llanidloes: sunny, sunny, hot!  Excellent weather throughout, amazing unbroken sunshine ... groups needed regular water top ups. 
4 groups trekked over Plynlimon mountain area: all students were spirited & enthusiastic despite the occasionally uncomfortable arid conditions and painful feet. 
They camped in various secret wild camp locations and left absolutely no trace of their visit: top quality wild country travel.
You were a superb bunch to take on this trip, we think you learnt a lot on the way and all the staff thoroughly enjoyed taking you on this expedition ...
DofE Gold at its best!
Happy Holidays!
Mr C

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Fri, 08 Jul 2011 13:48:00 -0700 July Conservation Day http://dofe.posterous.com/july-conservation-day http://dofe.posterous.com/july-conservation-day
Nutfield Marshes: 30 pupils were praised for their excellent conservation work on clearing a channel of choking typha reeds. They formed a big team and worked hard together both in the stream and on dry land clearing willow coppice. They were a superb bunch and were highly regarded as one of the best RGS conservation teams that Reigate Area Conservation Volunteers has seen.  Very well done folks!
If you want to do MORE conservation in your own time ... contact Mr Collins for RACV details: YOU can save the World, starting in your own back yard!
Next RGS conservation day: December 13

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Fri, 01 Jul 2011 22:36:00 -0700 Silver expedition June 26-28 http://dofe.posterous.com/silver-expedition-june-26-28 http://dofe.posterous.com/silver-expedition-june-26-28
The biggest Silver hike EVER! Over 100 students and staff were involved in this 3 day expedition across the Surrey Hills.  Groups coped well in the hot & humid conditions; the best prepared brought a sun hat, sun cream and plenty of water.  Navigation was OK: mistakes are expected and groups generally recovered their routes quickly.  The Surrey Hills area is tricky to navigate so it's quite a test and you all did well!

Note: some hikers suffered unbelievably bad blisters which can be down to bad luck but please everyone do your best to check your boots fit properly, wear good quality walking socks (thin inner, thick outer) and try to keep your feet dry & cool and boots free from grit: not always easy!  "Treat your feet" and stop as soon as any hot spots appear. 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:50:00 -0700 Important notice! http://dofe.posterous.com/important-notice http://dofe.posterous.com/important-notice
 If you are planning to do RGS dofe expeditions at any level in 2011-2012, or enrol in dofe next academic year, please refer to the new dates on the DATES! page. 
Several important changes have been made to the structure of dofe expeditions: some have been moved.  This new structure will remain fixed so you know when trips go further in advance and can hopefully keep them free more easily.
This is part of an overhaul of the RGS dofe scheme which will be published in letters before the end of the summer term.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Mon, 30 May 2011 02:22:00 -0700 May half term expeditions http://dofe.posterous.com/may-half-term-expeditions http://dofe.posterous.com/may-half-term-expeditions
Silver training: destination South Downs: 4 groups trekked from Bramber Castle to Arundel Station via Washington and Amberley.  Surprisingly cool & cloudy & windy weather but no rain.  All groups performed really well on the big second day which involved some significant climbs and 10 hours of hiking for some of them.  Several individuals showed confident navigation skills and all groups aspired to near-perfect LEAVE NO TRACE camping.

2 Bronze canoe groups completed a 2 day overnight canoe adventure on the Basingstoke Canal for their training expedition.  Excellent reports were received.  Well done to our pioneering canoeists!  Pictures emailed to me for this blog would be welcome.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Mon, 02 May 2011 10:41:00 -0700 Bronze training expeditions May 1 - 2 http://dofe.posterous.com/bronze-training-expeditions-may-1-2 http://dofe.posterous.com/bronze-training-expeditions-may-1-2
100 pupils took part in the Bronze training expedition over a cool, breezy and sunny Bank Holiday.  Two groups had excellent conditions for canoe training on the River Wey, good reports have been received about their spirited participation learning to paddle open canoes and manage emergencies like capsizing.

Walking groups left RGS and walked to different camp sites around Brockham, Leigh, Box Hill and towards Chaldon.  Groups were trained by their Gold Award leader and staff along the way and many of these camped overnight. 
All groups completed the 2 day hike.  Most groups will need to prepare more thoroughly for their qualifying expedition and use their experience to operate more effectively in navigation and camp craft. Nevertheless, a successful training expedition. Further training for the qualifying expedition will take place Tuesdays 4-5pm throughout September and October.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:37:20 -0700 Conservation Day March 2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/conservation-day-march-2011 http://dofe.posterous.com/conservation-day-march-2011 22 Bronze pupils did their first conservation day at Petridgewood Common near Salfords.  Reigate Area Conservation Volunteers led the day and instructed pupils in the safe use of cutting tools and the purpose of felling and removing invading scrub species on the common.  All pupils worked very well indeed and made a real difference to the area creating a more diverse habitat for species including rare butterflies, orchids and camomile. 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Sun, 27 Feb 2011 14:26:45 -0800 Morocco Gold expedition http://dofe.posterous.com/morocco-gold-expedition http://dofe.posterous.com/morocco-gold-expedition Gold Expedition to the High Atlas mountains: Feb 2011.  18 students and 2 staff completed a trek in the Ait Bougamez Valley in the Atlas Mountains this half term.  A very successful trip which featured some very cold nights, sunny days and awesome mountain scenery.  Passing through Berber villages and learning about life in these mountain valleys proved extremely interesting.  A visit to a school in Ilfrane was a particular highlight, though children elsewhere tended to beg for pens more than expected.  Our mountain guides, Azis and Murad, were excellent.  Marrakesh was immensely entertaining and both pupils and staff enjoyed haggling for gifts to take home.  Many thanks also to Carol Davidson, our assessor.  Well done to all who took part, a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding trip.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Sat, 01 Jan 2011 12:01:00 -0800 A guide to starting DofE at RGS http://dofe.posterous.com/a-guide-to-starting-dofe-at-rgs http://dofe.posterous.com/a-guide-to-starting-dofe-at-rgs

HOW TO GET THE BRONZE AWARD 2011.pdf Download this file

Here is a guide for 3rd Year pupils and parents thinking of starting Bronze DofE this January.  This will be available as a hard copy at the Options Evening for parents and at the DofE assembly, both in January.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:55:00 -0800 Earlswood Common conservation http://dofe.posterous.com/earlswood-common-conservation http://dofe.posterous.com/earlswood-common-conservation
20 Bronze DofE pupils worked incredibly hard all day on conservation activities in Earlswood Common.  The Countryside Manager for Reigate Borough Council visited the team and was impressed by their commitment and enthusiasm.  A cold but dry day - ideal for felling invading scrub (mainly alien sycamore - devoid of wildlife) along the Greensand Way (where it runs along a raised embankment hiding a Victorian sewer - piping Reigate's sewage to the sewage works down the road!).  The pupils were brilliant - on task all day, delightfully enthusiastic and dedicated to the job.  They opened up some good "window views" overlooking the lake and left the place with more diverse habitats for wildlife.  Excellent job folks, very well done!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:31:00 -0800 DofE review 2010 http://dofe.posterous.com/expedition-review-2010 http://dofe.posterous.com/expedition-review-2010

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins Wed, 17 Nov 2010 03:11:00 -0800 Lost your record book? http://dofe.posterous.com/lost-record-book http://dofe.posterous.com/lost-record-book
You can find pdf files for replacement Bronze, Silver and Gold record books on the /work/dofe/replacementKeepingTrackbooks folder on the student drive of the school network.
Print out what you need and then cut and stick the pages together to make your new record book!

The new Keeping Track Books are flimsy and easily lost ... please cover them to make them more durable and do your best to keep them safe, as we will in the Office.  We never need the box or other contents submitted.

Collect record books from the dofe Office as soon as you can after any expeditions.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/319177/mt_meru1.jpg http://posterous.com/users/37lAv8BC7jQR Simon Collins Mr C Simon Collins