THERE has been high praise for one of Crediton’s Queen Elizabeth’s School team’s which recently took part in the Ten Tors Challenge on Dartmoor.
The 45-mile team from Queen Elizabeth’s School was said to have “showed exceptional leadership”, stopping mid-route to assist an unconscious walker from another school and administering first aid until medics arrived.
Their actions earned them an extended time allowance and the school’s heartfelt pride.
Both of QE’s 35-mile teams completed the event successfully, with QE A finishing at 2.30pm and QE B, in memorable banana outfits, finishing at 3.18pm.
A record 134 students from seven schools within the Ted Wragg Trust successfully took on the legendary Ten Tors Challenge, demonstrating outstanding resilience, teamwork and determination across the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor.
Representing 23 teams across 35, 45 and 55-mile routes, students from Exmouth Community College, Honiton Community College, Isca Academy, Queen Elizabeth’s School, Sidmouth College, St James School, and West Exe School battled the moor’s unpredictable weather and challenging terrain to complete one of the UK’s most iconic youth endurance events.
Ten Tors is a uniquely demanding challenge that sees thousands of teenagers in teams of six navigate self-supported routes of up to 55 miles over two days. Carrying everything they need for the journey, including food, shelter and equipment, participants must be physically and mentally prepared to face all conditions.
The Ten Tors Challenge continues to stand as one of the UK’s most demanding and rewarding youth outdoor events, coinciding with National Walking Month, a national campaign that highlights the many benefits of walking for physical health, mental well-being, and enjoying the great outdoors.
What sets Ten Tors apart is its sheer scale and ambition, and its focus exclusively on young people. Training and preparation, overseen by participating schools and organisations, begin months in advance to build the resilience, navigation skills, and teamwork needed to succeed.
It’s a true test of character as terrain, distance, and unpredictable weather make the challenge formidable, but with the right preparation and attitude it’s definitely achievable.
Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: “The Ten Tors Challenge represents everything we stand for as a trust - resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to personal growth. Every student who took part has achieved something extraordinary, and we could not be prouder of them. I also want to say a big thank you to all the staff and volunteers who made the event possible.”