Young explorers from Ottery endured a gruelling hike over miles of rocky slopes, while taking part in a once in a lifetime challenge.
A total of 30 pupils from The King’s School braved the great outdoors last weekend after months of training, preparing them for a potential battle against the elements while they completed the 35, 45 or 55-mile course across Dartmoor.
All of the students had to prove they could be self-sufficient, carrying all they needed to camp overnight and reach the finish line.
It was the first year, the school proudly fielded two 55 mile teams. Lauren Down, Kyle Hartnell, Dan Baldrey, Jasper Forsythe, Jasmine Potbury, Eleanor Salter, Oliver Brown, Anna Biven, Oliver Derham, Freya Arnold, Mark Reddish, Dan Hart successfully worked together to walk the equivalent of two marathons in as many days.
There was also praise for year 11 pupils Connie Bradley, Naomi Gammon, Ben Bonner, Bethany Rogers, Charlotte Thomas, George Salter who walked 45 miles before starting their GCSE exams days later. The groups also had a special surprise visit from former pupil and five-time Olympian Jo Pavey who met them at the finish line on Sunday, as they received their medals.
Also completing the course, was Alex Ford, Luke Hymans, Sarah O’Connor, Treeve Harris, Cassia Wilson, Digby Churchill, Charlie Arnold, Annabel Courtney, Lara Drew, George Copley, Rob Rowe, Euan Potbury, who each received a medal for walking 35 miles.
Headteacher Rob Gammon said: “I am incredibly proud of the achievements of all our students that have taken part in the Ten Tors Challenge, whether this be with the school, East Devon Explorer Scouts, Cadets or other organisations.
“We are determined to continue to offer these opportunities which provide some of the most profound learning experiences for students, complimenting their academic education at the school. It is the wide range of opportunities that they experience at the school, alongside high quality teaching and strong sense of community that makes the school a special place to study and sets us apart from others.”
Mr Gammon thanked the staff and volunteers who gave up their time as well as parents and the Rotary Club of Otter Vale for their donation towards the cost of the Ten Tors programme.
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