Sixth Form College students go for gold

Rochdale Sixth Form College students at the top of Mam Tor, Castleton, Peak District

A group of Rochdale Sixth Form College students swapped classrooms and lecture theatres for crags and hills recently when they embarked on a walking expedition to the Peak District, as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award scheme.

Twenty one AS and A Level students went on a 17 mile walk in Castleton, to prepare them for the final stage of the award, which will involve a challenging three night expedition in June.

As well as testing their physical endurance, students practiced their map and compass work and carried out team bonding and fitness building activities – all skills which will be put to the test during the final stages of this prestigious award.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme is just one of around 70 enrichment courses on offer to Rochdale Sixth Form College students, designed to help them extend their education and personal growth beyond their academic studies, while also providing useful experience for their university application forms.

James Davidson, Government & Politics teacher at Rochdale Sixth Form College, commented: “I’m really pleased with the dedication and commitment the students have shown working towards this award. As well as the final expedition, which will be a real test of both physical and mental strength, students have also spent the last 12 months learning a new skill. I have no doubt that this well-recognised award will hold them all in good stead when they go on to study at university.”

A Level student, Christopher Whetham, added: “It was really useful to have a practice run of the expedition. Although it was tough, I now know what to expect, and I’m confident that I’ll take home the Gold Award in June.”