On Saturday 3 May, twelve of our Year 7 pupils set out to compete in the 2025 annual Exmoor Challenge, navigating a testing 16-mile hike across a varied route around Exmoor. They arrived at eight checkpoints at precisely the right time. Walking unaccompanied in groups of four, they used their skills in map-reading, following a compass bearing, teamwork, and observation as they followed the route and completed a quiz along the way.

The weather was excellent and conditions were perfect, which made for a very competitive event this year. In the end, all our competitors did incredibly well, with everyone finishing the entire course and arriving at the finish line tired but in great spirits.

And the results were amazing!

• Girls’ team – 1st (out of 26 teams)
• Mixed team – 2nd equal (out of 66 teams)
• Boys’ team – 10th (out of 31 teams)

These results are a real testament to the hard work and fantastic attitude of the children involved. Well done to you all – you have made us so proud!

This event is organised by the Rotary Club and is an annual fundraiser for the brilliant charity, South West Children’s Hospice. To date, our three teams have raised nearly £2,000 for this very worthy cause.