Our secondary school in Essex owned a cottage in North Wales, which I think had been gifted to the school at some time. We used it as our base for our Gold expedition in 1988. I remember the camaraderie and support within our whole group including the teachers at that house. It was the turning of age where we were seen as young adults. The North Wales weather was fierce and our mixed group of 6 supported each other through hard times. It taught us a lot about teamwork.
As an academic student I also wouldn’t have normally taken up typing but I did it at evening class for a skill. My career then developed in the computer software industry - and being able to touch-type quickly has been a valuable skill I am most grateful to the DofE for making me learn!
I am very proud that both my Sons are currently doing their Bronze and Gold respectively. It is a great life experience at such a critical age.