My journey with the DofE Award Scheme started on 21 June 1990, with the Girls' Brigade in Norfolk. I have very fond memories of volunteering with the youngests Girls' Brigade section at Rosebery Road Methodist Church in Norwich; an interest in volunteering stayed with me, following me to Purley St. Swithun's Guide Unit, when I moved south in 1993 and later, on a return to Norfolk, with Gt. Ellingham (St. James) Scout Group, which I joined in 2004, initially as a parent and Executive Commitee member. I am still involved within Scouting at Group, District and County levels and within the the DofE Award Scheme itself. I completed my physical section with Norwich Union Ladies 2nd XI and my skills section with the Maddermarket Theatre, Sewell Barn Theatre and the Great Hall Players, developing both my backstage and performing skills, igniting a passion for all things 'Theatre' which is still strong and part of my life today. My residential section was very much an 'eye-opener' spent on an Outward Bound course in Great Hucklow. I learned several new skills during that period, participatinng in rock climbing, abseiling, pot-holing, orienteering, map-reading, hiking and camping, completing an overnight expedition. My time participating in the Gold Award has had a powerful influence in my later life and a passion for youth work ad the performing arts. Scouting and DofE is a dominant force in my life, which we have been able to share as a family. All three of my children acheived the Bronze DofE Award and my older daughter, Leah, went on the complete Silver and Gold. Leah is now a Supervisor, whilst my husband is a Supervisor and Assessor. I am now an Award Verifier, Supervisor and Assessor and I would love to inspire, support and encourage as many youg people as possible to participate and develop through the Award Scheme. My favourite memories are attending the Anniversary service at Westminster Abbey and St. James's Palace with Leah to receive her Gold Award.