A Smith’s Wood Academy student has been praised for his quick thinking and compassion after helping an injured walker during his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition.
Year 9 student, Joseph Baron, recently completed his volunteering and Level 2 First Aid qualification – equivalent to a GCSE – as part of the award. Those skills proved invaluable when he spotted a hiker who had rolled his ankle near the top of a hill during this month’s expedition.
Despite his group still working to find their bearings and yet to reach their first checkpoint, Joseph immediately stepped in to assess the situation and offer first aid.
DofE Manager, Miss Weightman, said the moment captured the very best of the programme:
“It’s unusual for a young person to have the confidence to approach a stranger, assess the situation and offer treatment, and even consider a rescue if needed. I feel really, really proud.
“We expect ambition from our students, but this goes beyond that. Joseph was already navigating challenging terrain, carrying full kit and supporting his team, yet he still put someone else first.”
Joseph provided reassurance, checked the injury and offered a painkiller from his first aid kit. The walker was then able to make his way safely back down the hill.
This is not the first time Smith’s Wood students have stepped up during an expedition. In 2024, three students on a practice walk called an ambulance for a man who had collapsed and stayed with him until paramedics arrived.
Reflecting on the experience, Joseph said:
“It does feel good to help someone. I felt warm inside seeing him walk off again.
“DofE is an amazing opportunity. It teaches you life skills, it looks great on your CV, and it’s all about teamwork. You have to look after each other. If someone gets left behind, you fail. So you learn to keep everyone safe.”
Smith’s Wood Academy is proud to offer one of the most accessible DofE programmes in the local area. Expedition costs are kept low, and the academy runs adapted expeditions, including kayaking challenges, ensuring students who use wheelchairs can still complete the award.
Learn more about DofE at Smith’s Wood, including the first aid skills that students develop through the programme.