Ten Tor Training

Ten Tors training begun in September and we had an incredibly tough and testing year with students completing one long day walk and six full training weekends. In each training weekend, our students had to arrive at school at 6:30am in the morning, drive to Dartmoor and start walking in the dark. They would then independently navigate their route over long distances, carrying a full backpack. Following this they would pitch their tents, cook their evening meal and wild camp on the Moor. The following morning they would be up at around 5:30am, make breakfast, strike camp and begin the next day’s route.

Our students have faced wind, rain, cold and thick fog. They have walked though marshes and bogs, crossed rivers and climbed countless Tors. One morning they even had to wait for their boots to defrost before they were able to put them on! They’ve seen stunning sunrises and sunsets and incredible views.

The Ten Tors Challenge

Following their training, 3 teams of 6 participated in the 35-mile distance of the Ten Tors Challenge. They all did incredibly well and completed their route successfully with time to spare.

Team C pushed really hard on day one, giving themselves a much shorter distance to cover on day two. They reached the finish line at 10:36am which is the fastest time that any St James team has ever achieved!

Team B came in next at 2:30pm. Somehow this group managed to complete the whole route wearing top hats and they were still wearing them proudly when they crossed the line.

Very shortly afterwards at 2:36pm, Team A crossed the line. Their navigation and teamwork had been fantastic throughout the event and there were tears of joy from many in the group as they walked up the finish straight to loud cheers from the crowd.

After the event, each team collected their medals and their pasties and some even got interviewed by a local radio station!

All students who participated has worked so hard and have become more resilient and confident young people. They’ve made new friends, enjoyed a break from phones and screens and have created memories that will stay with them forever. Everyone at St James could not be prouder of their dedication and teamwork.

 

Outdoor Education

At St James, we really value learning experiences outside the classroom for our students, including the enriching benefits of outdoor education. We complete the Jurassic Coast challenge in Year 8, The Duke of Edinburgh Award in Year 9 & 10; and the Ten Tors Challenge in Year 10 & 11.

We are currently looking into running an outdoor challenge for Year 7 next academic year. If you are interested or have any questions then please contact Mr Webster by email at thomas.webster@stjamesexeter.co.uk.