YOUNG achievers from the Hereford Sixth Form College Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Club met in the prestigious setting of St James’s Palace be presented with their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award certificates by Olympic medallist and DofE central region director, Phil Brown.

The eight students worked towards their award whilst at the college. They received their certificates in the presence of the DofE’s Patron and Founder – HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, during a unique event which was a fitting culmination to mark the hard work, determination and perseverance required to complete the Gold DofE programme.

The presentation, on February 26, recognised the achievements of Marcus Betts, Molly Garbutt, Lewis Hiscox, Serena King, Alicia Parker, Carla Thornewell, Craig Townsend, and James Wylor-Owen. Each one worked tirelessly through the five sections of the DofE programme for over a year to achieve their award.

A DofE Gold is awarded to those who complete a programme of activities in five sections - volunteering, physical, skills, expedition and a residential. Each DofE programme is developed by the participant to reflect their interests, and the diverse activities undertaken by this group include conservation work in the Lake District, working with children with disabilities, gaining a qualification in sign language, learning to play the piano and even working on a wildlife reserve in South Africa. In addition they all had to complete their expedition - a 50 mile journey through the Welsh mountains over four days. A real test of teamwork, initiative, determination and leadership.

At the end of their award each one can say they have made a difference, developed skills for life and work, and have memories to last a lifetime.

Jonathan Godfrey, Principal of Hereford Sixth Form College, said, “We are very proud of the success of our students who have worked so hard in a variety of activities to gain the prestigious Gold Award. I know they would want me to pay tribute to Mal Mason, the College’s DofE Co-ordinator and his team who prepare them for the very challenging expedition section and co-ordinate their applications for the full award.”