Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (Bronze)

The 2015 Bronze International Award Expeditions to Oman were the most mentally and physically challenging experiences faced yet by Year 10 St Christopher’s students. The Expedition teams included over 90 students and 12 staff mentors who flew to Oman on three separate expeditions over the three consecutive weeks in March.  Staff and students embarked on this extraordinary opportunity as it gave them the chance to be able to trek around the stunning coastline of Oman, encountering steep varying mountainous terrain and spectacular sand dunes. On arrival, our students faced navigation and team building exercises to prepare them for what they faced ahead. The 3-day adventure required our students to embrace around fifteen hours of trekking, ascending to altitudes of an astonishing 500 metres.

On the first and third Expedition, students completed the 20 km hike through the beautiful Wadi Shab where students were exposed to Oman’s natural coastal beauty and culture. However, due to adverse weather conditions, the second Expedition had to be diverted to the vast mountainous terrain where sand dunes met mountains. This was a first for St Christopher’s School. The students adapted well to the environment and even met some unwelcomed guests such as scorpions, camel spiders, and not to forget the odd goat or two. As expected, there were a few blisters but everybody made it safely back and, contrary to what people might think, they returned with big smiles of satisfaction on their faces. The students did exceptionally well, proved that they are capable of great things and should be extremely proud of themselves. A big thank you to all staff and students who were involved with these Expeditions and made it possible for all to have such an enjoyable learning experience.