On Tuesday both Year 11 Outdoor Education classes completed their first day walk for their tramping unit standard. We started at the bottom of the Leith Saddle track, which started with a gruelling half hour climb, through lush forest rich with bird song and the heavy breathing of students. Before we knew it, the forest parted and gave way to breathtaking views of Dunedin harbour and Swampy Summit as we climbed higher and higher. Morning tea was eaten on the big rock at 666 metres above sea level. Walking on we reached the radar at the top of Swampy Summit, where we engaged in a few team building activities that got rather competitive. Then we tramped along the Swampy Ridge track, stopping amongst thick tussocks for lunch, for a much welcomed meal. After packing up, we continued on toward Flagstaff, where Mrs Ward introduced a game of camouflage, inducing much laughter and diving into bushes. After completing the Flagstaff loop, we descended down the Pineapple track before returning to school, muddy, tired but very happy. We were very lucky with the weather and the track condition, although it was boggy and slightly slippery in places, the track was generally in good condition considering the recent rain. There were many leading opportunities within the tramp, with students given the chance to navigate and take control of the walk. Overall everyone had a great time and we all highly anticipate our next tramp in Term Three.