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.

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. 

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.