Junior School Studies Guide - Aiglon College

ExpeditionsAt the weekends the Juniors have the opportunity to join our very popular Expedition programme, in whicheach pupil selects at least three weekends per term from a diverse and exciting range of activities. Mostpupils opt to do more than the minimum requirement and several choose to go every weekend. Activities andadventure are combined with skill learning, environmental awareness and, probably the most importantfeature, that of learning to work closely with others in often-challenging situations.In the Autumn and Summer terms most expeditions are in tents although in the colder months pupils might stayin mountain huts or even a snow-hole. Activities include walking and navigating, orienteering, cycling,canoeing and rock climbing. The three-day-long expedition takes place at the end of the year and in the case ofthe second form provides a steppingstone to the Senior School’s independent expeditions. Indeed, some Juniorsmake this step as fully-fledged “expedition leaders”.In the Winter term the programme includes ski touring, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing inthe local alpine environment. Weekend expeditions take place over just one day and involve training towardsthe long expeditions of three days in the mountains. These provide a unique opportunity to travel in the winteron skis to some interesting and spectacular locations, and involve staying in mountain huts, developingstamina and willpower, and working together.This vibrant expeditions programme is run by a specialised and highly-qualified team, with the additionaluse of mountain guides in the Winter term.Frequently Asked QuestionsWill my child be able to cope?Although the term may conjure up images of tough, extended trips, our expeditions mostly last less than 24hours and are carefully chosen to match the abilities of the student. No reasonably fit child is going to find ourexpeditions too arduous. The School is divided into groups according to skiing ability and fitness forexpeditions and every effort is made to place each boy and girl in a suitable group.What equipment do they need?All equipment can be provided by the School Shop. Outdoor clothing is provided as part of the school uniformand is used for expeditions and skiing. Other specialised equipment is either provided by the School Shop orlocal suppliers. This includes specialised sleeping bags and mats, rucksacks, head torches and water bottlesand equipment for ski-touring. Any other equipment is provided by the School and lent to the pupils when theyare on expedition.Aiglon Junior School Studies Guide 2013-14 25