Imogen, Year 13 pupil and former Head Girl, achieved her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award despite this year’s difficult circumstances – today she looks back proudly on her experience.
“Over the past two years I have built on and developed a range of skill sets. Starting prior to Covid-19 and continuing throughout the pandemic, I completed a year of my chosen skill (driving) and a year of volunteering at school running Junior Journal Club. I initiated this club to support Year 8 to 10 pupils with a wider interest in science and continued it via Google Meet throughout lockdown. Playing netball for my local club contributed my six months towards the physical section.
“I learned more about myself and my impact on others whilst diversifying my skill set.”Imogen
“In addition to these sections, to achieve the Award I had to complete a week long residential trip, independently from school. I was fortunate enough to embark on this in the 2019 summer holiday after my GCSEs – before the current restrictions came into place! The week was full of activity and adventure; whilst it threw me somewhat out of my comfort zone, I never would have had the opportunity to try so many new things and make so many new friends. Mountaineering, for example, was an incredibly daunting experience but with the support of the rest of the team, we all managed to overcome our fears which ultimately made our team stronger.
“The five-day expedition in The Chiltern Hills was the final part of the Award, which I successfully undertook with three of my peers. The 20 kilometre walk each day proved challenging: the October weather filled our boots with rain and, covered in mud, we were cornered by cows! Despite this, it was a very enjoyable experience providing me and my friends with many wonderful memories.
“Having achieved Bronze and Silver, I am so pleased that I persevered with Gold and would recommend the opportunity to anybody who has the chance.”
Imogen, Year 13 pupil