This was one of my favorite cas experiences, the trek where I got to challenge my abilities and where I got to reconnect to nature. On 25th July 2025, we went for a one day trek to Bhavar kada waterfalls in Ahwa, a stunning location known for slippery terrain and heavy rainfall. The trek was categorized in a difficulty level of medium to high, I would say it was quite challenging for me as it was just my second time going on a trek, and the first time going without proper trekking equipment. This experience not only helped me to connect to nature but also assisted me in reflecting on my areas of strength and the importance of resilience.

LO1-Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

During the trek, I became more aware about my strengths and my areas where I needed to grow. To commence with, I noticed that group work was one of my strengths. I performed well in group settings and we helped each others to pass through the more steeper and tougher parts of the trek. Another strength was determination, even though I was exhausted, I slipped once or twice, I had the end in my mind. I knew that I had to get to the waterfall. However, an area of growth I noticed was that my physical endurance needed strengthening. I would get out of breath and while I was determined mentally I had to take frequent breaks. This was a significant area of growth and I knew I had to start doing endurance strengthening exercises.

LO2 – Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills.

The trek presented multiple challenges that tested me both mentally and physically. The path was uneven, steep, and very slippery at few points. I found my self questioning if my decision to come on this trek was right or not and at many a times I had to take help from the teachers or peers. Despite this I took on the challenge, knowing that CAS is about growth. Though this trek I developed multiple skills on trekking, an example would be the foot placement. I self-discovered that positioning your feet slant or cross gives you better grip and avoids slipping, and I also learned how to use natural supports to climb over obstacles or pass through muddy puddles. Most importantly, I learnt where to crouch, how to check for loose rocks, and about rest step. Rest step is a technique where you put your weight towards the back leg when moving forward. Inshort, these techniques made me more confident on the way back up and I climbed up the mountain way faster.

 LO4 – Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience

When we reached the trek location, we were clearly instructed that once we start the trek, no one is allowed to go back or stop halfway. I was very nervous, and the nervousness grew as we went deeper down the mountain. And there were times when I wished I could go back or stop halfway, but this trek signified self-trust and the extent to which I can push through adverse situations. Thus, I told my self that I have to get to that waterfall, and I showed perserverance and deep commitment by doing so. I completed the trek, despite the challenges and the exhaustion.

LO5 – Demonstrate skills and benefits of working collaboratively.

The main goal of the trek was to reach the waterfall, however we had to do it safely and we all had to ensure that no one got injured or got left behind. We were in batches, and after half an hour of trekking we all realised that supporting each other, helping younger students, and ensuring safety of each other was the most efficient way to complete the trek. There were instances where my friends would lend me a hand while climbing a rock, and there were times when I would provide assitance to my peers at muddy terrain. Safe completion of the trek wouldn’t have been possible without teamwork, thus this is how I demonstrated the advantages of working collaboratively.

Conclusion:

This trek was more than a physical challenge, it taught me team work, perserverance, and I got to know of strengths I did not know I had. It also made me aware of areas of improvement such as endurance. This trek taught me the value of commitment and the value of stepping out of my comfort zone.