It's the expeditions that stick in my memory. The independence of finding your own way with just a map and compass. Carrying the heavy pack. The relief of taking boots off at the end of a long day.

I had a shoddy pair of boots for my silver expedition, which I did with my Ranger Unit on the Isle of Arran. My assessor turned first aid after the first night patching up my poor feet, covered with blisters.

But I think the Gold Residential had the biggest impact. I did an Outward Bound course in Aberdovey. The outdoor activities were challenging (I discovered that I hate enclosed spaces when we went tunnelling). But even more significant was the fact that this was the first time I'd spent time away with people who hadn't known me all my life. I grew so much in self-awareness - perfectly timed just weeks before I went off to university.

Sadly no photos in those pre mobile phone days!