After a highly successful expedition trip, with groups from Fettes College and Broughton High School, the 2017 Polar Academy group looked back on their experience from their first meeting with founder, Craig Mathieson, to the incredible achievement of completing their 10 day - 100km journey through the wild landscapes of Greenland at a very special medal presentation event.
After months of preparation, an intense and physically demanding training programme and a few days of very poor weather, the team of 10 teenagers successfully completed thier first polar expedition. We are incredibly proud to support the next generation of explorers, and hearing from the kids and their families at the event held at Edinburgh Castle's Great Hall on the 2nd May was incredibly inspirational.
Opened by the Edinburgh based Picthcraft choir, the packed great hall played excellent host to the inspirational stories and experiences from the young people from both Fettes College and Broughton High School. During the event, our CEO, Chris Tiso gave an address to the crowd, signifying our strong relationship with founder, Craig Mathieson, and the Polar Academy programme over the last few years. Craig then gave a short speech to the attending members of the expedition and leadership group and thier closest family members and friends about thier 12 month journey from selection to expedition.
Family members of the expedition and leadership group were then called up to present unique polar medals to their children, while team guides, medics and support from the schools were also presented with a limited edition ice axe, as well as their contribution medals.
Take a look at video below to see highlights from this year's medal presentation ceremony, if you'd like to see more, there is also a gallery at the bottom of the post.
Everyone at Tiso would like to wish all those involved with the Polar Academy 2017 the very best of luck for their futures, and hope to hear more from their adventures as they tour local schools to share their experiences with other young people over the coming months. We are incredibly proud to support such a great cause, and will continue to provide funding and expertise to the group next year! To find out more visit our page!
