Celebrating hard-earned Duke of Edinburgh Award achievements

On Wednesday 6th December we held a Duke of Edinburgh Awards celebration evening for more than 130 students who have achieved the award at Bronze, Silver and Gold over the past 12 months.

Joined by guest speakers Rachel Smith, Bournside of DofE Alumni, and Paul Webb from H5 Adventure, the ceremony recognised student achievement at all levels of the award and the efforts that staff and volunteers have made to ensure the scheme is so successful.

"Windswept, wet and wondering which way up the map goes: the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme provides all kinds of challenges. When we think of the D of E, we tend to think of expeditions – of days spent exploring the mountains, valleys and pathways of our countryside. Those expeditions require teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to keep going when stopping seems a far more attractive option. However, it’s not just physical endurance that is required to be successful. The other elements of the award are testing too: they take staying power, perseverance, and dedication. They test students’ “people skills”; they require initiative and independence."

"In other words, success in the Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme is hard-earned. It’s not easy! It is, therefore, a real pleasure to spend some time this evening celebrating those of our students who have risen to the challenge."

- Mr Jefferies, Headteacher

One parent commented: "It was great to acknowledge and see something of the great achievement of so many young people. Thanks for all your hard work in the organisation and running of the scheme at Bournside."

Congratulations to everyone involved!

Find out more about DofE at Bournside here.