Silver DofE Expeditions in the UK

Cost: £475

Unlock adventure and personal growth with our Silver DofE expeditions.

At Pringle's Peaks, we deliver Silver DofE expeditions across the UK, specifically designed for young people in Year 10 and above. This intermediate stage of the Duke of Edinburgh journey offers an excellent opportunity for students to become more independent, strengthen teamwork and develop essential outdoor skills.

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woman in plaid shirt carrying backpack in forest hiking outdoors adventure joyful nature 8 activities

 

 

Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition details

Age

Year 10+

Challenge

Intermediate, greater independence

Skills Developed

Route planning, leadership, outdoor survival, campcraft

 

Practice Expedition

3 days (with 2 overnight camps)

Qualifying Expedition

3 days (with 2 overnight camps)

Features

Full DofE expedition training included.

Safety structured into every expedition.

 

 

 

Our Silver Programme Overview

We've crafted a thorough Silver Duke of Edinburgh expedition programme to help every participant succeed:

two students smiling and engaging in a classroom setting with educational materials visible

1. School-Based Training Day

The journey begins with a focused, practical training day. We cover:

  • Navigation and map reading
  • Route and meal planning, with access to sample menus
  • Cooking with Trangia stoves and managing camp hygiene
  • Basic first aid and emergency procedures
  • The 20 DofE conditions and the countryside code
  • Group tasks focusing on aims and objectives
  • Tent pitching
  • Rucksack packing and essential kit discussions

 

 

This day lays the groundwork for a safe and rewarding expedition, supporting the move from Bronze to Silver or offering a solid introduction for those new to DofE.

three brightly colored tents set up in a wooded area surrounded by tall trees ideal for a camping trip with five friends

 

2. Three-Day Practice Expedition

Participants set out on a three day, two-night expedition in a similar environment to their forthcoming qualifying assessment. The focus here is learning, teamwork, and navigating the challenges together while under the watchful supervision of our experienced leaders.

All expeditions include a minimum of two supervisors at all times, maintaining at least a 1:12 leader to participant ratio, ensuring safety and support are never compromised.

group of hikers walking on a trail in the forest carrying backpacks and sleeping mats enjoying nature adventure and camping experience for three friends

 

3. Three-Day Assessed Expedition

For the final challenge, participants complete a three-day, two-night adventure, assessed by approved DofE assessors.

Campsite fees are built into the cost of the expedition, so there are no hidden surprises. Our team at Pringle's Peaks guarantees structured guidance and clear safety protocols throughout.

 

 

 

 

 

camping gear including an orange sleeping bag a red backpack purple yoga mat a silver water bottle and black hiking boots perfect for adventure 7 essentials for outdoor trips

Equipment Included

We provide all the essential expedition kit needed for group activities:

  • High quality tents
  • OS maps and compasses appropriate for your route
  • Trangia stoves and fuel

What's not included

Transport to and from expedition start points is not included (schools or parents will need to arrange this). We do not supply personal kit items as outlined in the DofE Silver expedition kit list. However, if any participant is struggling to source personal kit, please let us know,Pringle's Peaks will always do what we can to help.

Click here to download the kit list

 

 

Questions about our Silver DofE Expeditions

What is different about the Silver DofE expedition?

Silver DofE expeditions offer an intermediate challenge, with increased independence and responsibility compared to Bronze. They include longer practice and qualifying expeditions, more advanced skills, and a focus on leadership and outdoor competence.

How far do participants walk during the Silver DofE expedition?

Participants typically walk between 12-17km per day over three consecutive days, depending on the route and group capabilities. Both practice and qualifying Silver expeditions include two nights camping.

Is previous DofE experience required for Silver expeditions?

No, previous Bronze DofE experience is helpful but not essential. Pringle’s Peaks provides thorough Silver DofE expedition training to prepare all participants, whether or not they have completed previous levels.

What skills are important for Silver DofE expeditions?

Key skills include navigation, route planning, teamwork, meal preparation, camping skills, first aid, and outdoor safety. All are covered in the initial training day of the Silver DofE programme.

What equipment is included in the Silver DofE expedition package?

All group equipment such as tents, maps, compasses, and Trangia stoves are included. Personal kit, as outlined in the DofE kit list, must be provided by participants or their school.

How is participant safety ensured during Silver DofE expeditions?

Pringle’s Peaks prioritises safety with qualified staff, robust safeguarding, first aid training, emergency planning, and a minimum supervision ratio of 1:12. Every expedition has at least two supervisors present.