QEH teams summit Arkle and Ben Stack

All three teams are back at the adventure school after some hard graft and determination in the mountains. We wild camped together at the foot of Arkle last night, in our three teams, cooking supper on trangia stoves. It is an incredible spot and has been the launchpad for forays into the mountains by Ridgway teams since the late 60s.

We breakfasted in front of the old stone cottage at Lone before setting off. The eldest team, the Greens, set off with Zeki and Mr Ryan for Arkle, while the Red and Blue teams set their sights on Ben Stack.

The weather forecasts and reality have not been closely aligned over the last few weeks but today was true to the forecast. We knew we’d be grafting hard through showers drifting in off the Atlantic, which would bring low cloud and poor visibility on the lower slopes but that the day would improve as we climbed higher. And so it came to pass.

The Reds and Blues were treated to incredible views from the summit of Ben Stack just lunch. A just reward for the efforts lower down the mountain.

The Greens made fast time to the first of Arkle’s two summits and sat out in a group shelter eating lunch just after midday before committing to the narrow ridge that curves around to the second and higher summit. Views came and went as they retraced their steps across the crenelations. Certainly one of the most competent and efficient Year 7 teams we have had on Arkle.

We were back at the adventure school in time for the keenest to have a quick swim before supper.

The three teams head to survival island tomorrow evening. A chance to put together all that they have learnt so far. A true test of independence and responsible decision making.

Stretch… don’t cruise!