By Royal Invitation: Bournside Gold DofE students invited to celebrate their achievements at Buckingham Palace
20 May
The Duke of Edinburgh London Gold Award Celebration Event (Day 1) took place in the incredible surroundings of Buckingham Palace's garden on Friday 10th May and Mr Fenton-Musty, Teacher of Geography/DofE Lead and three Bournside students had the pleasure of attending.
Current Year 13 student, Eloise W (pictured above), said; "Gold DofE gave me drive to achieve goals I had been working on for years and was so close to giving up on, and in doing so opened more doors, such as becoming a coach at my aerial acrobatics club after finally reaching a high enough level of skill. The expedition was an experience that will stick with me forever, making me realise that I had resilience in places I didn't know it could exist!
"It was wonderful to spend a day at the palace with so many other people who had achieved their gold, there was definitely a shared feeling of camaraderie, pride and joy at what we had all achieved."
I look back on my time spent completing the Award so fondly; it played an integral role in working out what I cared about, my purpose in life; not just what I wanted to do but who I wanted to be? Never lose sight of your values, and get ready to leave your mark.
- Guest speaker Vick Hope, TV and Radio Presenter
I am inspired simply being here with you all today, savour it and never be afraid to make a mistake.
There were moments where I thought about giving up, then I remembered what my Award taught me.
- Guest speaker, Clive Myrie, BBC Journalist and Newsreader
Mr Fenton-Musty, Teacher of Geography and DofE Manager, said; "It was a lovely occasion and I felt very privileged to be invited to such a prestigious event for the first time in 8 years of service. "Three past and present Bournside students attended the party this year: Hannah L, Luke S and current Year 13 student, Eloise W."
"We heard from Prince Edward Duke of Edinburgh and Clive Myrie but there were also many other talks taking place throughout the day including Vick Hope, Kai Widdrington, Alun Wyn Jones, and Melvin Odoom. We enjoyed the customary cup of tea and a cake and had the chance to explore the beautiful gardens which were in full bloom in the spring sunshine. It was a day which I'm sure 8,000 gold achievers will never forget. Neither will I."
