On 24th May, Health and Social Care student, Emma de Whalley, formally received her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award at Buckingham Palace, a remarkable achievement which requires 18 months of hard work, dedication and commitment.

Emma’s efforts included volunteering as a coach at a local gymnastics club, attending Zumba classes, helping to clear out ponds at the Sayers Croft Field Centre and hiking for five days in North Wales.

Emma, who is in her second year at Kingston College, studying a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care said: “Most people associate the Duke of Edinburgh Award with rain, blisters and getting lost! However, one of my most memorable moments was on the Gold expedition in Snowdonia. It was the last day, we had walked up a mountain, we were tired, hot and had just been told that we still had a long way to go to get to the waterfall to qualify. I remember thinking that I was with a great team of people who were determined and supportive and if anyone could get there we could. And we did. We were rewarded with an amazing view across a lake.

“The hardest part of the Gold award, whilst studying a BTEC, was balancing my time. I spent 12 months volunteering, learning a new skill and six months doing a physical activity, as well as training and planning for the expedition. Although it was challenging, it has taught me how to balance my time and given me more confidence.

“Receiving my Gold award at Buckingham Palace was an honour. It felt very surreal standing in the gardens of the Palace with a brass band playing on a lovely sunny day. I was made to feel privileged and being around others in our Scout uniforms made me feel proud. The Countess of Wessex, who presented our awards, wanted to know all about our experiences and goals for the future.

“The Duke of Edinburgh Award has been a journey and not just a physical one; I have learnt so much since starting, aged 15. I would encourage others to give it a go, and you have until you’re 24 years old to complete the award.”

Tony Cicco, Head of School – Care at Kingston College, commented: “We are very impressed with Emma. Not only is she doing extremely well on the BTEC course with Distinctions in all assignments but she also found time to pass the DofE Gold award!”
 

Article supplied by Wendy Catt-Camfield