My family loves to hike, explore and appreciate different places in their full glory! Recently, we went on a family trip to Dambulla, along with some of my dads work colleagues and their families. One activity we undertook, was climbing Pidurangala. This is a rock adjacent to the famous Sigiriya rock. The top is a flat plane, and getting to its peak requires climbing on all fours, experimenting with different athletic skills. We have climbed that route previously, but for almost all of the other children, it was their first time. I was one of the oldest kids there, and naturally, I became the designated mother of the children group… This was nice, but also stressful and pushed me to acquire leadership skills when helping younger children in new terrain.
To get to the rocks base, we walked through a temple. I had to wear a sarong over my shorts for this segment. Climbing the rock was enjoyable. The weather was cool, and the entire path was shaded under thick forest cover. The first stop we all took was at a plane about halfway through the climb, where there was a large ancient sleeping Buddha statue, and an information station regarding the history of Pidurangala. We took photos here and hydrated before continuing. My dad also pointed out the ancient techniques used to adapt the rock surface for communities. There were cuts along the side of the rock which acted as drainage systems for the rain water, to prevent rain water from falling along the rock onto the people using it as shade/shelter/a meeting place.The second part of the climb was more unconventional. Rather than stairs, we reached a point where we had to climb on all fours, and hoist ourselves up. I had to station myself to help all of the little kids, who were extremely eager to make it to the top first. This took a solid foundation of navigating the climb, and leadership skills to help the kids. Getting to the top was really fun! The breeze was amazing and the view was beautiful. Every-time I do hikes like this, I am reminded of how beautiful my home is.
We could explore the vastness of the top of the rock, as it is a smooth plane. Once again I had little kids holding both of my hands as we walked across. We took photos in different combinations, with the Sigiriya rock in the background – an amazing view.
After heading down and back to the lodge we were staying at, we all swam in a cool river. It was refreshing and fun!
LO2 : Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process A new challenge may be an unfamiliar experience or an extension of an existing one. The newly acquired or developed skills may be shown through experiences that the student has not previously undertaken or through increased expertise in an established area.
I undertook the challenge of a hike, while navigating the new challenges that come with leadership, especially with a group of young children.
LO5 : Demonstrate the skills and recognise the benefits of working collaboratively Students are able to identify, demonstrate and critically discuss thebenefits and challenges of collaboration gained through CAS experiences.
My brother and I learnt the value of collaboration when working together to navigate the terrain and lead a group.