35 hardworking students from the College have improved themselves and their skills by taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award is a nationally recognised programme which aims to inspire, guide and support young people in their self-development. The Award is highly valued by both universities and employers, as students who participate in it are necessarily hardworking, tenacious and well-motivated individuals. There are five sections to the Award: Voluntary work, Skills (a hobby), Physical (sport activity), a 5 day Residential and Expedition.
The College is dedicated to encouraging students to constantly strive to better themselves and their prospects; offering students the chance to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award is part of that. There are currently 35 students taking part, and an 7 of these students have become assistant leaders too! This means that they are voluntary members of staff, with opportunities to help to run the scheme and to learn about group management, activity facilitation, public relations, marketing (during open evenings), health and safety, first aid and expedition training.
Recently, the students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award have been given the opportunity to take part in a variety practise walks in the local countryside. They have visited various places in the Pendle area, including Wycoller Country Park, Malham and several night navigations. They are looking forward to the expeditions planned for this year, too: trips will include the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District, both areas of outstanding natural beauty.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award is more than just day trips. Students have taken part in a massive range of activities for their Voluntary Work and Skills sections, including voluntary places at hospitals, on-site opportunities with SEN learners, on-site sports and enrichment, paint balling and many more!
Residential placements are currently being booked with the National Citizen Scheme, The Challenge’s summer programme, which is an intense programme comprised of physical and team challenges and community-based social action projects. As part of this section, many students are going beyond the British borders – some are even going as far as America and India!
The College is delighted with the continual success and popularity of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award and hopes that students will continue to participate in and benefit from this hugely popular extra-curricular activity.
