Kelly Scott
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a truly life-enhancing experience. Through Volunteering, Physical, Skill, and Expedition sections, DofE encourages young people to look further than formal education and get involved in activities which they may not otherwise consider.
Completing the Gold Expedition in the Lake District in 2015 is one of my biggest (and most challenging) highlights. It began with being left off at the wrong place outside Keswick, meaning our first day of hiking was longer than expected. On top of that we ended up with methylated spirit infused pasta for our evening meal! The weather offered exceptionally high temperatures and our bodies grew physically tired but our spirits remained high. Despite a 'few' mishaps, the Lake District offered exceptional scenery throughout and the sense of achievement arriving in Swinside was worth it. The Bronze, Silver & Gold Awards Expeditions have pushed me both physically and mentally but have taught me the skill of resilience no matter how tough things can get and the importance of individuality and team work. I'm thankful for the friendships strengthened through these times and for their continued presence in my life today.
I received my Gold Award in May 2017 at Hillsborough Castle, the Duke of Edinburgh's last official engagement to Northern Ireland. What an honour to have been present that day and to have been involved in such a prestigious Award.
I owe these opportunities and memories to the leaders who freely gave up their time to encourage and organise but more specifically to HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, for creating the DofE Award 65 years ago.
Completing the Gold Expedition in the Lake District in 2015 is one of my biggest (and most challenging) highlights. It began with being left off at the wrong place outside Keswick, meaning our first day of hiking was longer than expected. On top of that we ended up with methylated spirit infused pasta for our evening meal! The weather offered exceptionally high temperatures and our bodies grew physically tired but our spirits remained high. Despite a 'few' mishaps, the Lake District offered exceptional scenery throughout and the sense of achievement arriving in Swinside was worth it. The Bronze, Silver & Gold Awards Expeditions have pushed me both physically and mentally but have taught me the skill of resilience no matter how tough things can get and the importance of individuality and team work. I'm thankful for the friendships strengthened through these times and for their continued presence in my life today.
I received my Gold Award in May 2017 at Hillsborough Castle, the Duke of Edinburgh's last official engagement to Northern Ireland. What an honour to have been present that day and to have been involved in such a prestigious Award.
I owe these opportunities and memories to the leaders who freely gave up their time to encourage and organise but more specifically to HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, for creating the DofE Award 65 years ago.
