Greetings from Old Basing Duke of Edinburgh Open Award Centre!

As this notice goes to print we will be on our way to preparing more young people for their D of E Award. This year is our 4^th and follows a very successful year in 2008. So far we have one bronze group, two silvers and a first for us, a gold group! Each group are in training for their expeditions which range from the New Forest to The Isle of Wight to the Brecon Beacons. Before that we have a number of training walks scheduled where, together with our Monday evening sessions, the groups will learn or brush up on how to map read, navigate and “survive” for a weekend away from mod cons such as TV’s and computer games. They will also learn first aid, how to cook simple meals and erect a tent and sleep out for the night as well as learn to work as a team safely.

After the initial training walks, we will be holding a fun camp weekend at the end of April with various activities available via Marwell Activities Centre. Other activities planned include a treasure hunt walk and bbq.

For those interested in the statistics, training walks are up to 5-8 miles long and require a day sack to be carried with basic equipment. Expedition walks cover approximately 12-13km per day over two days for bronze and 15km per day over 3 days for silver with overnight camps. Previous training is essential as you have to carry all your supplies and equipment for the two-three days in a full size rucksack. The expedition also requires a project to be undertaken during the walk.

Our philosophy is to make the award challenge a thoroughly enjoyable experience in a safe and supervised environment. If you would like to join us, we are able to accept a small number of keen and willing participants to join our existing groups providing you apply promptly.

We can be contacted on 01256 470583 / 473402 or email oldbasingoac@aol.co.uk All trainers are HCC trained and CRB checked.

Bob Ward

 

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