This past weekend, several cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron successfully completed their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze expedition—a major milestone in their development. Corporal Gay, Cadet Giles, Cadet I O’Flynn, Cadet M Millard, and Cadet Peacock were among those who took part in the challenging 13 km walk from Beyton Church to Bradfield Combust Adventure Camp. Without phones or adult supervision, the cadets had to rely on their planning skills, a compass, and teamwork to navigate the route. Their task wasn’t just to reach the destination but to make the walk last a minimum of six hours, building endurance and cooperation along the way.
Upon arrival, the cadets set up camp by pitching their own tents and preparing their evening meal, fully embracing the independence the DofE encourages. After spending the night under canvas, they cooked breakfast, packed their gear, and set off on their return walk—again relying only on their navigation skills and communication as they took a different route back to Beyton, ensuring their journey lasted another six hours.
With around 60 cadets from various squadrons taking part, it was a chance not only to learn survival and teamwork skills but also to make new friends. At the end of the expedition, the cadets were debriefed and asked to reflect on what they had learned about themselves and their fellow cadets. The experience left them with a stronger sense of resilience, self-reliance, and the pride of completing a key part of their Bronze Award.
It’s a fantastic achievement, showcasing their ability to plan, navigate, and work together—skills that will benefit them as they continue their journey in the ATC and beyond.
Comments