I successfully completed my bronze, silver and gold DofE awards a number of years ago (about 28 infact - gulp!). A number of inspirational teachers at my school and 6th form led our award scheme and it undoubtedly had a hugely positive impact upon me as a young person. It taught me resilience, the value of public service and left me with happy memories of a very good time with friends (that I am still close with to this day). After university my DofE experience encouraged me (in part, along with the Ten Tors challenge I also undertook) to join the Royal Navy as a warfare officer. Joining in 1997 I undertook 17 years service and was lucky enough during my career to command my own warship amongst a varied number of other roles. I also undertook a role in officer recruitment and as recruiters we always viewed holding a gold DofE award as better than a 4th or 5th A -level. After my Royal Navy career I volunteered to be a school governor and now work professionally advising schools in strategic leadership and good governance. So I am still public service orientated! Undeniably the opportunities provided by the DofE award scheme provided a focus for my future professional life - and left me with life skills (and happy memories) I cherish to this day. The award scheme is a great opportunity for all young people, and help shaped my professional career. Written in memory of a life well lived and with gratitude to HRH Phillip Duke of Edinburgh.