Over the last two Saturdays, the Year 9 pupils who are taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award carried out hikes around Brighstone Forest. Pupils planned an 8km route to walk in the forest. This allowed them to practice their map reading and navigational skills, which they are learning in preparation for their two day expedition later in the year. On Saturday 12th November, pupils coped with torrential rain all morning – which certainly tested how waterproof their hiking gear was! On Saturday 19th we were treated to a shower of hail, but everyone persevered brilliantly. The hikes were very successful, with all groups managing to navigate their routes.