St Helen’s students in Years 10 and 13 are celebrating this week after two completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, and 40 earned their Bronze award.

Amelia and Maha in Year 13 recently completed their Gold Award. This is a fantastic achievement and highlights real resilience and commitment to volunteering in the local community, developing a skill and being committed to a physical activity.

Both were issued with their Certificate of Achievement at the final Year 13 celebration assembly this week. They will in due course be invited to one of the royal palaces to collect their Gold Award certificates.

Maha said:

Though challenging at times, I have really enjoyed completing the Gold Award as I have gained new skills such as becoming a lifeguard as well as more memories and experiences that I will cherish. I did a back-to-back expedition in the Peak District where I completed both my practice and real expedition within one week. This was physically demanding as we were walking on rough terrain for around 7 hours each day in immense heat but the whole experience has definitely made me more resilient and confident. I am really proud that I have completed this award during the challenging times of the pandemic.

Amelia said:

Duke of Edinburgh was an amazing experience, the expedition allowed me to enjoy time with my friends and taught me important navigational skills. I enjoyed the Gold programme and it gave me skills for life that I will utilise in the future.

And massive congratulations to 40 of our Year 10s who walked 24km over two days and camped overnight in chilly conditions for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh assessment. All groups passed after demonstrating secure camp-craft skills and navigating to the end point.