Haydon School Expedition 2026
Bronze, Silver and Gold Expeditions
For your Expedition section, you will need to plan, train for and complete an unaccompanied, self-reliant expedition with an agreed aim. You must do the correct training for your level and mode of travel, at least one practice expedition, a qualifying expedition (the one that is assessed) and a final presentation in order to complete the section.
Your expedition must be completed by your own physical efforts (but you have loads of choices, not just on foot!) with minimal external intervention and without motorised assistance. Your route should also be a continuous journey.
For your Expedition section, you will need to plan, train for and complete an unaccompanied, self-reliant expedition with an agreed aim. You must do the correct training for your level and mode of travel, with at least one practice expedition followed by a qualifying expedition (the one that is assessed). There will be 6/7 individuals to each Expedition group – a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends!
What does the Expedition Section involve?
A big part of the Expedition section entails being able to navigate along your journey using a map and compass. All members of an Expedition group will need to be able to read an Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 map and take a compass bearing. Don’t worry, you will learn these skills.
This DofE Expedition Kit List is a guide for participants and parents / carers to identify the required kit for an upcoming practice and assessment expeditions. These items are essential.
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh Award
Bronze, Silver and Gold Expedition Kit List
Walking boots
Walking boots are one of the most important items of kit you will need. Please ensure your walking boots have ankle support. Ensure you have walking boots that are durable and waterproof and highly abrasion resistant. Upon purchase, wear your boots in to avoid blisters on expedition. NO TIMBERLANDS
Walking Socks
Getting the right socks for your expedition can make a huge difference. Walking socks are designed to minimise blisters with padding and moisture protection fabric. Good walking socks can be the key to an enjoyable expedition and help to avoid blisters. Two pairs are recommended.
Waterproof clothing
All DofE participants need a waterproof jacket and trousers. This outer (shell) clothing layer protects against rain, wind and cold. Waterproof jackets are lightweight and designed to be both waterproof and breathable.
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh Award
Bronze, Silver and Gold Expedition Kit List
Expedition Rucksack
65 - 70 Litre
Get a rucksack with a strong waist strap and wide well-padded shoulder straps. It should have an attached high visibility waterproof cover and adjustable back system.
Sleeping Bag
A good night sleep always helps on expedition, so it’s important to have a sleeping bag designed to give you comfort at the lowest minimum temperature. A 3 season synthetic sleeping bag should be sufficient for a DofE expedition. A mummy-shaped sleeping bag helps keep the warm air inside your bag and close to your body, which can keep you warmer.
Sleeping Mat
Sleeping mats are a DofE essential, giving you extra insulation and comfort for a good night’s sleep. Traditional closed-cell foam mats are low cost, lightweight, durable and give enough insulation. To keep your mat dry, cover with a black bag.
This DofE Expedition Kit List is a guide for participants and parents / carers to identify the required kit for an upcoming practice and assessment expeditions. These items are essential.
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Bronze Expedition Kit List
Clothing items (Depending on the weather)
hoodies
Washkit / personal hygiene
Expedition Kit List (Essential)
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Silver Expedition Kit List
Clothing items (Depending on the weather)
hoodies
Washkit / personal hygiene
Expedition Kit List (Essential)
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Gold Expedition Kit List
Clothing items (Depending on the weather)
Washkit / personal hygiene
Expedition Kit List (Essential)
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Expedition Kit List
Expedition Food - NO RAW MEAT
Food is essential on an expedition. You will need lots of energy whilst journeying en route. Foods which provide a lot of carbohydrates are ideal. Food items can be shared between group individuals. Please ensure you cater for group member allergies / dietary requirements
Breakfast suggestions:
Lunch suggestions:
Dinner suggestions:
Handy Hint! – remove any unneeded packaging from your food before you pack it, saving space and weight
Haydon School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Expedition Kit List
Whilst on your practice and assessment expedition, it is very important to stay hydrated. Therefore, please note the following...
If you get bored of water, these mini squeeze juice packs are perfect to give your drink a better taste!
Water only please
(minimum 2 litres)
Feel free to drop an email if you require further information.
Ms Maisuria
Mr Valentim
dukeofedinburgh@haydonschool.com