Current Level 3 Public and Protective Services student Imogen Allerton and former student George Gorringe attended the prestigious Gold Award Celebration Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, alongside CWA’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager John Felmingham, after achieving their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Held in the gardens of Buckingham Palace, the event recognised the achievements of young people who have successfully completed the highest level of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Guests were invited to explore the palace grounds and hear from a range of speakers and special guests during the afternoon.
The celebration was hosted by Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, who is Patron of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The event brought together thousands of Gold Award holders from across the country to recognise the dedication, resilience and commitment required to complete the award.
The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and rewarding youth achievement programmes in the UK. Participants complete volunteering, physical, and skills-based activities, undertake a residential experience, and complete an expedition, developing valuable life skills alongside their studies.
John Felmingham, Course Director for Public and Protective Services and the College’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager said, “It was a privilege to attend the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Celebration at Buckingham Palace alongside Imogen and George and to see their achievements recognised on a national stage.
Completing a Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award requires an exceptional level of commitment, resilience and determination over an extended period of time. Both students have embraced every challenge the programme has presented and should be incredibly proud of what they have accomplished.
Experiences such as this demonstrate the lasting impact of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, helping young people develop confidence, leadership skills and a sense of adventure that will benefit them throughout their lives and future careers. Seeing our students represent the College at such a prestigious event was a proud moment for everyone involved.”
The College of West Anglia has a long-standing commitment to supporting students through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, helping them build confidence, leadership skills and experiences that enhance their future education and career opportunities.