As the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme marks its 70th anniversary some of its newest award winners celebrated their achievements at a special Springwood High School ceremony.

Around 100 students attended our Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Celebration Evening, where Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards were presented to those completing the different levels of the scheme.

Lucy Edwards, DofE Co-Manager at our school along with Ciera McKenzie, helped organise the event.

“Students had the opportunity to celebrate and receive their Bronze, Silver, and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards with their parents and peers, receiving certificates and badges for  their achievement,” she said.

“In addition, students received certificates for completion of their individual sections – volunteering, skills, physical, expedition, and residential.

“Students also received recognition for their good teamwork, most improved, positive attitude, resilience, DofE ambassador, Spirit of the DofE, and outstanding achievement.”

Among the attendees were 40 students from Years 10 to 13 at Springwood, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, along with some of our recent Year 13 graduates.

Guests included King’s Lynn Parkrun Director Gary Walker, who delivered an inspirational speech; DofE Operations Officer Russell Smith, who spoke about the programme and its milestone 70th; and our DofE Young Leader, India, who shared her Gold expedition experience.

Miss Edwards continued: “This is the first of its kind held at Springwood, and we are looking to hold these on an annual basis. These events are important, because we are able to celebrate the students’ successes with them, and highlight the outstanding achievement of receiving a DofE Award.

“The DofE programme is extremely important for students' personal growth and the development of general life skills. They can set themselves appropriate goals and challenges, making it an inclusive award.

“Students develop resilience, determination, and confidence, which they can transfer to their everyday lives and any challenges they are required to overcome.”

She added: “The expedition section is particularly enjoyed by the students, most of whom have never experienced camping and walking trips previously. With phones becoming an increasing part of young people’s lives, this award is a good opportunity for students to experience life without their phones in their countryside, and immerse themselves in the moment.

“Our Gold cohort from last academic year recently featured in the BBC Travel Show Great Offline Adventure exploring the benefits of students being away from their phones.”