ADVENTUROUS Burnley teenagers have taken part in a camping expedition as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award.

The group of 14 students from Years 10 and 11 of Ridgewood Community High School in Eastern Avenue, took part in map reading, camping and shelter building as part of the experience.

The students, who have special educational needs, took part in the expedition to qualify for the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award.

During their three-day stay the group took part in a host of activities to help build their independence and confidence.

The expedition was the last part to be completed before they are presented with the prestigious award next year.

Damian Ramsden Year 11 teacher and Duke of Edinburgh co-ordinator said: “During the expedition the children were dropped off at Worston near Clitheroe and split into two groups that both had teachers supervising.

“They had to navigate their way along an 8km route using maps and compasses to get to Waddow Hall Girl Guide Centre. When they got there they set up their tents and cooked their own food on a stove.

“The second day took them on a walk through the Ribble Valley sculpture trail near Waddington along the River Ribble and up Waddington fell. Along the way the children had to identify different trees, plants, birds and animal tracks. During the day they also built emergency shelters and had a BBQ.

“On the final day they took part in a 10km hike from Waddow Hall stopping to Whalley where they were picked up by a mini bus and taken back to school.

“They all had a lot of fun on what was their very first camping trip.”

The school has been taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh award for the past six years.

As part of the award the children have also carried out work in the community including a number of litter picks and taking up individual learning skills ranging from trampolining to dancing and boxing.

Damian says that the scheme has proved to greatly benefit the students in all aspects of their lives.

He said: “The children come from a mix of backgrounds, some are under privileged and have a range of educational and physical problems.

“Although we carefully supervised what they did, the students really had to earn their award and should be very proud of their achievement.”

The school is looking for donations of unwanted waterproof coats and boots to use in future expedition. To donate call the school on 01282 682316.