Resilience, adaptability, creativity, problem-solving, decision-making, and communication are just some of the invaluable skills our students develop while immersed in the stunning Alpine environment at Leysin American School (LAS). These qualities are also at the heart of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a prestigious multi-level program (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) that empowers students to demonstrate dedication, perseverance, and commitment. Each level of the award includes five key components: community service, skills development, physical fitness, the Adventurous Journey, and the Gold Project.

This past weekend, five remarkable members of the Class of 2026—Nika, Samantha, Tasker, Isaiah, and Michael—completed the Adventurous Journey component of the Gold-level award. The highest and most challenging level, the Gold Award pushes students to their limits and beyond, with the Adventurous Journey serving as a true test of their resilience, teamwork, and independence.

The students took full ownership of their expedition: setting goals, managing logistics, and preparing for any challenges that might arise in a wilderness setting. Over four days, they hiked more than 35 kilometers and climbed 3,500 meters of rugged terrain through the breathtaking Dents du Midi mountain range—an iconic vista that we are lucky to see daily from our Leysin campus. They carried everything they needed (such as tents, food, and supplies) and they navigated independently, with LAS staff nearby only to provide emergency support.

Day 1: Facing the Storm Like Pros
On their very first night, the students were met with heavy rain, hail, and fierce winds. Like seasoned mountaineers, they confidently set up a sturdy, weatherproof camp. By morning, the hail continued, but thanks to their skillful preparations, everyone stayed dry, warm, and ready to continue their adventure.

Day 2: Over the Col de Susanfe
Undeterred by clouds and hail, the group hiked over the Col de Susanfe (2,493m), descending to Lac de Salanfe (2,000m), where the skies finally cleared. They enjoyed a sunny lunch, carefully evaluated conditions, and adjusted their route to ensure safety while still meeting their goals—a testament to their growing mountain wisdom. That evening, they camped above the lake, preparing for a summit push the next morning.

Day 3: Summit Success and Stunning Views
The morning brought clear skies as students climbed past a herd of ibex toward the Col d'Emaney. With heavy packs left behind, they scaled the West Ridge of Le Luisin (2,786m), carefully navigating rocky terrain to reach a sharp summit with 360° panoramic views—a highlight of the journey. Their descent brought them through the picturesque hamlet of Emaney and back up past cascading waterfalls to a sheltered Alpine cirque where they camped for the night.

Day 4: A Triumphant Finish
The final day began with an early start and a steep ascent over granite slabs leading to the Col de Fenestral (2,450m). The path was challenging but rewarding, with more ibex sightings and incredible vistas before the team descended 800 meters to their journey’s end at Finhaut train station. The relaxing train ride home gave students a chance to quietly reflect on their incredible achievement.

This expedition, with the thousands of meters climbed, awe-inspiring views, unpredictable weather, herds of ibex, teamwork, and laughter made it a truly unforgettable adventure. We could not be more proud of these five outstanding students. Their journey is not only a major milestone in earning the Gold Award but also a profound step in their growth as compassionate, capable, and globally-minded citizens.