1) Why at this time of the year?

• It fits best into the academic, cultural and sporting life of the school, and with the matrics having left, it does not place extra pressure on the academic life of the school.
• Sports fixtures with all schools will have finished and there are no major cultural activities at that time.
• Although hot, the weather is more predictable.

2) Why so long?

• There is a need for an extended period to develop independence, inter-dependence, practical skills, organization and allow for a complete outdoor experience, rather than a fleeting and superficial one.

3) The sun and exposure?

• A lot of activities happen in the early morning or late afternoon and we try, as far as possible, not to be out under the midday sun. A typical day starts at 05:00. There will be sun-screen dispensers at each base and staff will emphasize the dangers of the sun before and during the Epic.

4) Is there enough water?

• Hiking routes that have been chosen have been used over the past four decades precisely because of water availability. Bases all have more than adequate supplies of water.

5) Are the boys contactable?

• Not directly; however, all bases have access to land lines in an emergency. There is a staff member on the ground at Bishops with whom you will have direct access.

6) Cost?

• The cost for The Bishops Epic in 2023 is R18 900 (a 5% increase on the 2022 cost), which will be billed in three parts, at the start of terms 2,3 and 4.

7) Routes and adult supervision?

• As this programme uses the same routes we have used for over 4 decades, we know the area very, very well. Our staff, who will include teachers, ODs, Scout leaders, professionals and climbing instructors, are well prepared and experienced.

8) Medical supervision and access?

• Dr Strauss (Clanwilliam) is our medical supervisor for the programme. Each group carries a basic first aid kit and each base will have First Aid equipment. Wildmedix are on full time standby at Jamaka. It is the most centrally based of all our bases and the medics have access to all emergency services offered in the Western Cape. In addition, they have 4x4 access and are fully prepared to handle any medical emergency.

9) Who is in charge of the Epic?

• The current Epic Director is Graeme Klerck. He is assisted by Graham Robertson, who was the previous Epic Director for ten years. Please feel free to contact either of them via email, if you have any other queries.