The DofE has been a huge part of my life ever since I began my Bronze award. I did voluntary work in a local school, learnt a new musical skill and began exercising more all as a result of this qualification. After enjoying the hiking and camping expeditions, I progressed on completing my Silver and Gold Award where I canoed around Sweden and slept in hammocks on islands. The leadership skills, confidence, teamwork skills and experience I gained supported me in the teaching career which I later perused. Due to my passion for the outdoors, I then went on to complete my Mountain Leader qualification all thanks to completing the DofE Awards which inspired me.

I later went on to volunteer as a leader on expeditions and then became part of the training team on a voluntary basis.

I was lucky enough to have met HRH. I will always remember how he took the time to make sure he spoke with everyone in the room at the Gold Award Presentation at St James's Palace. He was funny and friendly and I feel so fortunate to have met such an inspirational person.

I later completed the Diamond Award with my Dad completing the Cumbria Way.

So, as you see, the DofE helped shape who I am today. I have made life-long friends, gained qualifications, life experience and made memories to last a lifetime.