By Jenna Jimin Yoon 11S

Everyone met up at 5 o'clock in the sports hall, caryring a huge rucksack each. The mass of the rucksack reminded some of us about the hardship we had to face last March in Nanbeihu (Bronze expedition). When everyone had gathered around, the teachers registered the participants for the International Award programme, and then we went outside to the primary sports field to set up our tents. For some groups, it was easy-peasy to set up the tents and it only took them about 5 minutes, however, a few groups found it hard to get their tents ready. They soon realised the quickest and most efficient way of setting up the tents - I guess this was why we needed to train before going on the actual expedition.

After setting up our tents, we checked all the things we packed by unpacking them, and the re-packing them again. After that we learnt basic mapping skills using a map and a compass. At around 7.50pm, we went outside to cook dinner! We boiled water, cooked noodles, rice, and pasta and got ready to sleep in the ‘not-so-cosy’ tents. In groups, we went through our food lists and reviewed important things to bring on the IA expedition, and, at around 11pm, everyone fell asleep. It was a good evening and allowed us to get ourselves ready for the real situation.