I completed my bronze award during the first year of secondary school, not knowing the people in my group very well. During our practise expedition we laughed/cried/learnt our niches within our group/managed to get lost on numerous occasions and ended up finishing 4 hours late on the final day. However, through all the highs and lows, I definitely learnt a lot about myself and made many lifelong friends and memories (including losing both our maps on the top of a hill). I specifically remember one moment where we all wanted to throw the towel and give up due to the searing heat and how far behind schedule we were, through all of this we managed to power through.

I had so much fun on the bronze expedition that I then decided to do the silver award. Again, I created lots of new memories, friends, and learnt new things about myself involving my personality in helping to keep team morale high.

On top of all this, the 3 sections (physical, skill, volunteering) helped shape my character too. The volunteering I did at the local Shakespeare Hospice Shop allowed me to develop my public social interaction skills whilst helping the local community. The DofE also encouraged me to take up piano and guitar, which I have reached grade 4 & 6 in respectively. Taking part in the National Citizen Service (for my residential) further improved my social skills

I was on track to complete my Gold DofE award, however sadly the COVID-19 pandemic hindered my plans.

Thank you Duke of Edinburgh for enabling us to create all these memories and lifelong friends, you will be greatly missed. Rest in peace.