This January, OBCR hosted the first group from Mexico to complete their training and practice expeditions for their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Bronze Award.
The DofE Award is an internationally recognized program designed to encourage young people to develop positive skills and lifestyle habits. To achieve DofE Bronze, you must complete four of the following sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition. For the Expedition section, participants must spend two days hiking and camping in the great outdoors. The hike must be unaccompanied and self-sufficient and, therefore, teams must be equipped with the necessary skills required to complete the Expedition safely and successfully.
With the DofE program being so closely aligned with the mission and values of Outward Bound, OBCR were in the perfect position to provide the skills and experience needed by the students from Mexico to complete the Expedition section of their Award.
On January 17, 67 students and 6 staff from The Edron Academy, a British-Mexican school, traveled to our rainforest base in Costa Rica. During their first day, the students were split into 10 groups and OBCR staff delivered skills sessions on navigation, equipment, communication, first aid and meal preparation. These sessions prepared the groups for their two-day practice hike, which allowed them to put their new skills to the test as they navigated their way to Volcán Irazu and set up camp for the night.
On their return, the groups took part in some fun adventure activities, including treeclimbing and ziplining through a jungle canopy. Refreshed and ready for the next part of their course, the groups spent the next two days completing their qualification hike in the vast rainforest reserve surrounding the OBCR base. They trekked along steep winding trails, overcame the unpredictable tropical climate, and witnessed some of the most breathtaking landscapes Costa Rica has to offer. They finished their expedition with a visit to a waterfall and a well-earned swim!
On completion of their qualifying journey, the students reflected on their experience:
“I discovered that I am really good at reading maps and motivating my team. I started to believe in myself more because I showed to myself how strong I can be.” Ana, 15
“It was an amazing experience where you learn that your limits are bigger than you think.” Pamela, 14
“I learnt that everybody is part of the team, but we need one person to step forward and guide us.” Santiago, 14
“As a leader, I learnt the importance of empathy and of understanding everyone’s different needs.” Camila, 15
