Outdoor Education

Ten Tors Training

Our first Dartmoor training session went well. High winds, fog, rain, frost mixed with sunshine was all taken in our stride. The moor as ever was unpredictable. Recent rain caused the streams to fill, making crossing them difficult and the bogs to be bigger, wetter and deeper. The routes started at Okehampton Camp and headed south to Black Tor, taking in various sights on the way. Some of us camped at Black Tor, but the wetter ( the bog crossing group ) returned to our base camp to dry out. Breakfast on both days was our traditional cooked breakfast in a bun, as much as you can eat in the shortest time and vegetarians are cater for.

Total mileage covered was some 30 miles, with full packs on day one, day sacks on day two - to up the speed across the moor. Cooking skills were instructed and the finer points of boil in the bag foods were discussed. Choose something you like to eat ! Hydration techniques and foot care were also stressed and although map reading skill are still to be fully developed, but we have time.

Our next outing is the 15th & 16th of March. Leaving on the Friday by about 16:30 hours and returning on Sunday by about 16:00 hours. Cost as before £20:00.
The destination is Wales and our routes are based on the pre SAS selection training routes. So be prepared for a shock - we are upping the speed, getting up earlier, getting ready quicker, reacting faster and becoming smarter on the kit we carry. No extra baggage required. More details at the next meeting.

Request : we are looking for a large frame tent - perhaps an unused trainer tent or a just an old and not often used holiday tent. If you have one you could donate please contact the school.

Many thanks to Mr R Holmyard ( Ten Tors manager ) & Mr M Buss ( Extreme activities specialist )

Mr R Stewart

Tir-y-Cwm is situated in the Brecon Beacons, one of Britain's most beautiful National Parks