TY Gaisce Adventure Trip

Over two busy days last week, 29 students and 3 dedicated teachers walked from Glenmalure Lodge to Roundwood - a trek of 26.6km. This walk, also known as an adventure journey, is one of the requirements for students to earn their Bronze Gaisce Award. This award is Ireland’s “national youth award and is a personal development programme for young people”.

The students departed the school bright and early on Thursday morning rearing to go. They took the scenic route to Glenmalure Lodge, where their adventure began. Over the next 6 hours the students walked 14 km through the breath-taking Glendalough. The weather was absolutely glorious- thank god! There is no denying that the walk was tough, especially with the steep inclines, but everyone got plenty of rest along the way. Upon reaching the Glendalough car-park, everyone rewarded themselves with a much-deserved ice-cream!

After some chill-out time by the lake, they made their way to the Glendalough Youth Hostel. The students made their dinner in the kitchen followed by playing cards and relaxing for the evening.

The following morning, everyone refuelled with a substantial breakfast and got ready for the final stretch of the walk. This time it was 12 kilometres- unfortunately mostly uphill and, on top of that, the weather had taken a turn for the worst. However, the morale was high and everyone was very eager to make it to Roundwood and go home. After 4 long hours, the exhausted students and teachers reached the end of the trail. The sense of achievement among students was outstanding. They had an hour to recuperate and eat some food before boarding the bus.

There is no doubt that it was a very successful and enjoyable trip. A big thanks to the teachers who accompanied the students, Mr Lynch, Ms Cullen and Mr Cahill and everyone involved in planning and organising the trip!

Reporter: Ella Tidd