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At the end of November, 30 Year 11 students from Dover Court International School completed an unforgettable adventure: an eight-day, 137 km stand-up paddleboarding expedition along the iconic River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. This was the most challenging and exciting Silver Adventurous Journey we have offered to date, and the students showed incredible resilience, teamwork, and determination throughout.
Over the course of the week, they paddled through breathtaking landscapes – towering cliffs, remote jungle stretches, and floating villages – and encountered amazing wildlife, including kingfishers, hornbills, water buffalo, scorpions, and even a mother elephant with her calf bathing at the riverbank. These moments made the journey truly unforgettable.
This year brought an extra challenge: unusually cold conditions, with campsite temperatures dropping to 12°C, a historic low for the region. Despite the chill, students kept spirits high, camped confidently, cooked all their meals from scratch, and supported each other through long days on the water. Their perseverance was outstanding.
A highlight of the trip was the historical enrichment day, where students visited the Death Railway Museum and the iconic Death Railway Bridge. Learning about the construction of the Thai–Burma Railway during the Japanese occupation added a powerful layer of meaning to the journey.
This expedition tested students physically, mentally, and emotionally, and they rose to every challenge with maturity and courage. We couldn’t be prouder of their resilience and spirit.
The Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE) is a global programme that takes learning beyond the classroom, encouraging young people to challenge themselves and discover their passions. At Dover Court, students begin their DofE journey with the Bronze Award in Year 9 and progress to Silver in Year 11, gaining experiences that build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
Congratulations to all students on this extraordinary achievement! Click here to discover more about the outstanding experiences we offer beyond the classroom.