My time was as support leader to Anne Barclay at Annan Academy from 2005 till 2015. During that time we put 100's of young people through Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. My particular satisfaction was in leading 8 youngsters with learning difficulties to Bronze awards in 2 cohorts. For them the challenges were greater, particularly on the expedition as wayfinding was difficult. We overcame this by providing the participants with photos of the route, a photo map with tricky turns highlighted. Our overnight stay was at a wildlife centre where one of the groups were able to watch badgers feeding from a hide a few feet from them.

Another memorable moment, though not so much fun, was having to evacuate our practice expedition site in darkness in the teeth of an unexpected storm.

So proud of all as they overcame personal fears, most had never slept out before or even spent a night away from home.