The Duke of Edinburgh Awards certainly helped shape me as a young person. It gave me the opportunity to volunteer in local organisations that I would not likely of had the opportunity to do if it hadn’t of being for the D of E scheme. I also went abroad to Chamonix, Mont Blanc for my Gold D of E Exploration.

The D of E was both fun and enjoyable and I made loads of friends from all walks of life, some of which I’m still friends with today. I completed Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards and then several years later I completed a Basic Expedition Leadership Award which means I can assess Bronze and Silver groups.

The D of E scheme helped my self development, built my independence and resilience and confidence. I learnt new skills and improved my teamwork .

I am thankful to HRH Prince Philip for starting the Duke of Edinburgh Award all those years ago .