Katie Templeman and Ishbel Maclellan's review of their Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition.

DofE was a journey; and not just a literal one!

Our Duke of Edinburgh experience began after we signed up for and completed the Bronze award alongside not just our friends and peers but hundreds of others across the country. However, we both felt we could challenge ourselves even further, so we decided to apply for the Silver award and were elated when we were accepted.

 But, let us tell you, it is no walk in the park;  it’s a walk up a mountain, along rocky paths, and through endless fields with breathtaking views on all sides. There were many challenges we encountered on our three days of walking, such as getting lost in a golf course (it happens to the best of us) and having to adapt our route at the last minute, however, we both agree that these experiences have helped us to develop skills, which include; teamwork, navigation and patience, which we’ve noticed is helping us in our day-to-day lives. Finishing the expedition and even getting back to the campsite was an amazing feeling of accomplishment as it proved to us that no matter how heavy the bags were or how long the route seemed to be, that we could do it.

Although Silver is more demanding, it is so much better; you get to choose who you work will and who you’ll work well with, you’ll have the skills you gained from Bronze to aid you and we promise, that there will never be a day without laughter. Duke of Edinburgh, Silver especially, taught us that no journey in life is easy but when you have the motivation, determination and support network, suddenly the journey becomes clearer and smoother than before. So, we would strongly recommend you sign up for Silver Duke of Edinburgh because trust us, you will regret it if you don’t.