The Duke of Edinburgh’s award gave me the opportunity to learn so much. I achieved qualifications as an individual and as part of a team, from learning calligraphy, gaining ‘first aid’ qualifications, learning to ski, volunteering with charities, completing expeditions all over the UK and finally becoming an award scheme leader myself and volunteer, taking young people on their own gold qualifying expeditions to the Lake District, Wales and The Pyrenees.
I made lifelong friendships and gained 3 awards that gave me a real sense of personal achievement. I am still incredibly proud of my bronze, silver and gold D of E awards and it was a real honour and privilege to go to St James Palace 25+ years ago!
I didn’t get to personally meet and shake the Duke’s hand, as my little brother did a few years ago, but he’d earned that honour by dedicating 25 years of voluntary service supporting and then running the Duke of Edinburgh award in Colchester.


HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh - What a difference you made and what a legacy you leave for millions of young people worldwide. A heartfelt thank you for your devotion, dedication and support for our Queen. You were and always will be a real unsung hero of our monarchy and one who will be dearly missed by his family, our nation and the commonwealth.
Rest in peace x