Back in 1988 I undertook my bronze award, at school I was the girl who would only become a wife never to achieve a career, that was until I found the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

I loved the walking challenge over a weekend finding out I had grit and determination to complete something, I can only remember one other activity I did to get my award, which was a first aid certificate. This was something I have kept renewing and has aided me to help colleagues in the past. When I started working my greatest achievement was my award which I would put in my CV and employees took this into account.

From leaving school with no qualifications to the award and then on to a science degree later in life which I would not have had the courage to attempt without the award.

I will always be grateful for the award and hope it continues to help others that may not be academic realise they can succeed.