Three former College students were amongst hundreds of young achievers from across the UK who travelled to St. James’ Palace on Thursday 23rd November to receive the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award from the award’s patron and founder – HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.

Jonathan Round (18), Emma Bates (20) and Chris Courtman (19) had gained their Gold Award through a diverse range of activities for a period of at least 18 months. They worked tirelessly through five Sections of the Award Programme – Service, Physical Recreation, Skills, Expedition and a Residential Section. 

“One of my most memorable experiences came from my residential project in which I worked with the Back-Up Trust for spinally injured people” Emma recalled. “Although at first I was nervous about trying to help the participants, I soon learnt that my help when needed was much appreciated. One memory that sticks out is kayaking around a lake, playing games and races. Most of the time due to the arm strength of the spinally injured people, they won! I would recommend volunteering with the Back-Up Trust to anyone and plan to continue to volunteer with them.”

2006 is a particularly important year for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award as it is 50 years since its launch. Since 1956 the Award has challenged almost six million young people around the world to try new things, learn more about themselves and work together for their own benefit and that of their local communities. The Award is open to all aged between 14 and 25, helping those in and out of the education system whatever their circumstances and abilities.