Upon reflecting on the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award program at Northholm Grammar School, I can honestly say it has been one of the most influential experiences of my life.
The Award program is like no other as it has provided me with the chance to work with a range of personalities I would otherwise not have had the opportunity to. The bonding and friendships that are formed on camps, in particular on the Gold Adventurous Journeys, are things I value enormously.
Participating in the Duke of Ed has helped me gain greater awareness for the local community and has played an essential part in my co-curricular school life. It has inspired me to give back to the community through a range of activities including the NSW Rural Fire Service and Hornsby Men’s Shed.
When I began my Bronze Award I was a shy year eight student, now, almost four years later, I have grown so much and the experiences have been invaluable to me. I cannot think of a more meaningful and influential program in which to participate.
I strongly encourage anyone who is interested in the Award to speak to their schools Duke of Ed Captain, Award Leaders and/or others involved, to get more information about how you can participate in the Award.
Northholm’s participation in the Award Program continues to grow, reflective of the excellent facilitation by Award Leader Ms Jennifer Woods.
Regan Leatch
Duke of Ed Captain 2017
Bringing deep leadership experience across youth and the not-for-profit sector. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award - Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Helen White as its new Chief Executive Officer, commencing Monday, 23 February. Helen brings extensive leadership experience across not-for-profit peak bodies, youth organisations (including Girl Guides) and in health, most recently […]
University-led research shows stronger academic results among Duke of Ed students, in addition to the known personal development benefits. A landmark study by Western Sydney University has confirmed what many educators and Duke of Ed Leaders have long observed: young people who use the Duke of Ed Framework develop stronger personal capabilities and achieve better academic results. The comparative study, using five NSW public secondary schools, examined several data points including academic grades, NAPLAN scores, […]
Sport and adventure go hand in hand and for Coco, they’ve been life-changing. Inspired by her siblings, Coco set out to complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, determined to embrace every challenge. Aligning the Duke of Ed Framework with her passion for sport, Coco chose wheelchair racing for her Physical Section. Already a […]
