Last week, a group of our brave Grade 8 and 9 students took on one of their biggest challenges yet: completing the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Bronze Qualifying Expedition at North Ling Mountain, Beijing. And what an unforgettable journey it was!
Ling Mountain, known for its rugged beauty and winding trails, sits just outside the city but feels like a whole different world. With steep slopes, thick forests, and sweeping views of rolling peaks, it’s a place that truly tests your limits — and rewards you with breathtaking scenery at every turn. But Mother Nature had a few extra surprises for us: as the sun set, temperatures dropped sharply, turning a mild spring day into an icy night.
It wasn’t easy. Not even close. Students had to lean on each other, and find the strength to keep going when their sleeping bags weren’t warm enough and their energy was running low. But here’s the incredible part: they didn’t give up.
Our teams showed real grit, teamwork, and perseverance. They navigated tough trails, set up camp in the cold, cooked meals together, and motivated one another through the hardest moments. Watching them problem-solve, cheer each other on, and push through challenges was nothing short of inspiring. They showed what real commitment looks like — not just to the expedition, but to their teammates and to themselves.
That’s what the DofE program is all about. It’s not just hiking and camping. It’s about building resilience, leadership, independence, and a “never give up” attitude. Through real-world challenges like this trip, young people learn lessons you just can’t teach in a classroom — lessons about teamwork, courage, and personal growth.
We are so proud of every single student who completed the journey at Ling Mountain. They’ve proven they can face challenges head-on — and come out stronger on the other side.
If you’re a student thinking about joining DofE, or a parent wondering if it’s right for your child, here’s what we can tell you: it’s absolutely worth it. DofE pushes young people out of their comfort zones, builds confidence, and gives them skills that last a lifetime.
Ready for your own adventure? Join us for the next DofE journey — and discover just how strong you really are!
