The Duke of Ediburgh Year 11 team completed their qualifying expedition this weekend with flying colours.

Miss Plancke said: "They all achieved beyond their steps' targets, managed to climb a few hills without falling apart and finally understood the concept of static electricity when standing on top fields in the middle of a storm, although not so amused with the thunder and lightning show it seems. They were an absolute credit to Aspire Academy."

The group will complete the remainder of their sections over the next few weeks and receive their awards at a celebration evening in September here at Aspire Academy.

A massive thank you, as always, must go to the staff members who generously give up their weekends so these events can go ahead - Miss Plancke, Mr Dodd and Mr Tock take a bow for the support and the entertainment provided this weekend.

Duke of Edinburgh Practice Expedition 2