![Duke of Edinburgh’s Award pupils complete Bronze practice expeditions]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1779096076/rgcaberdeenschuk/k8ce5cxevh9huxlggya0/Bronzepracticeexpedition20263.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1779096076/rgcaberdeenschuk/k8ce5cxevh9huxlggya0/Bronzepracticeexpedition20263.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1779096076/rgcaberdeenschuk/k8ce5cxevh9huxlggya0/Bronzepracticeexpedition20263.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1779096076/rgcaberdeenschuk/k8ce5cxevh9huxlggya0/Bronzepracticeexpedition20263.jpg","width":1200}])
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme at Robert Gordon's College continues to go from strength to strength, with another highly successful year for pupil participation and outdoor learning.
Last week, 138 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award pupils completed their practice expeditions with the College’s external expedition partner, Hillgoers. The expeditions took place across the scenic landscapes of Knockburn and Potarch, where pupils experienced a mix of sunshine and rain while developing essential skills in navigation, teamwork and resilience.
Throughout the residential trip, pupils planned and followed their own hiking routes, worked collaboratively on camp cooking, and immersed themselves in the stunning Aberdeenshire countryside as they progressed towards achieving both their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and a National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) qualification.
Mrs McAvinue, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager, said: “It has been fantastic to see such strong engagement with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme. Experiences like these help pupils develop resilience, confidence and teamwork skills that benefit them far beyond the classroom. Despite mixed weather conditions, all pupils showed tremendous enthusiasm and determination throughout the expedition.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award remains one of the most valuable enrichment experiences available to young people, helping pupils build confidence, independence and leadership skills through memorable and rewarding experiences.”
Looking ahead, the College looks forward to welcoming 70 Silver participants and 46 Gold participants as they complete their practice and qualifier expeditions throughout June, July, and August.
The College congratulates the Class of 2026 Gold Award achievers, who will attend their award ceremonies at Buckingham Palace and Holyrood this summer in recognition of their outstanding commitment and achievement.
Congratulations to all participants on their resilience, enthusiasm and commitment throughout the expedition programme.