One of the extracurricular activities offered at LIS is the renowned Duke of Edinburgh Award. Besides engaging in a physical activity, learning a skill and doing a service for the community, the participants go on two expeditions in nature where they have to plan a route, navigate using only map and compass and live self-sufficiently for 2-3 days. This year the trips went to the beautiful local nature areas of the Zittauer Mountains and Saxony Switzerland.
Adria (Grade 9):
The Duke of Edinburgh qualifying expedition began with the wind blowing and the train chugging away as each of the groups set off on their own to get to the campsite. Through the rolling hills and the beautiful landscapes of Saxony Switzerland, we all worked together to navigate the wilderness. After arriving at the verdant campsite, we set up our tents and made dinner for our groups, sitting together while we ate and chatted.
As the sun set, the canoes glided onto the lake with laughing campers on board before everyone gathered around a smoky campfire to end the night. Waking up as the sun rose, the Bronze groups set off to the next train station, tired from the previous day’s effort but nonetheless determined to get to the train on time. Our work paid off, and all Bronze groups were on the train back to Leipzig on time. The teamwork was tested across the board, but the equal workload and utilisation of everyone’s skillset led to a successful expedition. Overall, the trip was a beautiful experience for all involved and will be a fond memory for many years to come.
