I was in the first group to 'do the DofE' at my school. We learnt about it in an assembly and were told that if we wanted to take part, we had to write a letter expressing why. My main concern- was it Edinborough or Edinburgh?
Taking part in the expeditions gave me experiences I wouldn't have had otherwise. I'll never forget the hours in the Library, pouring over maps of the New Forest and laughing at the funny names; the gnat bites when we camped by a lake; bits of grass in the food; carrying far more than my share to help my friends; and the feelings of mild peril, fun and friendship.
I feel very privileged to have had this chance to expand my horizons, with support from two lovely teachers.