Silver Award Hopefuls Scale The Peaks

Almost 30 young people from throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf took part in a grueling three-day expedition across the Brecon Beacons as part of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver Award.

The 27 pupils spent two nights under the stars in the chilly and wet surroundings of the mountainous landscape thanks to the Council’s Services for Young People E3+ cluster in Aberdare.

Led by Building the Future Together keyworker Katie Lloyd the expeditions were supported by  volunteer Alys Jones, teacher Peter Thomas and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award volunteer David Shaw who is an undergraduate at the University of Glamorgan.

Divided into groups, they faced a physically demanding trek to the summits of Fan Llia and Fan Dringarth, followed by orienteering activities in Garwnant, navigating across Cwm Cadlan moors and overnight stays at the Storey Arms Centre and Grawen campsite in Llwyn On.

Each of the students worked tirelessly against the elements to complete their practice expedition despite the arduous mountain climbs, boggy campsites and heavy rainfall.

For their qualifying expeditions in the summer, they will be walking the momentous 20-mile route from Symonds Yat in the Wye Valley all the way to Chepstow Castle.

The group are currently working towards their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award along with their National Open College Network qualification in Physical Recreation, Skills, Volunteering and Community Involvement and Hill Walking Skills with their Key Worker.

Head of Services for Young People Louise Cook said, “I am always proud of the young people across Rhondda Cynon Taf and they never fail to amaze me in what they can achieve. Some of the stories about the expeditions are wonderful.

“The young people in our County Borough are the future and they have shown just what can be accomplished through hard work and dedication. I would like to wish them all the very best in attaining their Silver Award.”