Over the weekend a number of Highfields leavers celebrated achieving their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award in Buckingham Palace Garden, hosted by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh as Patron of the DofE charity.
The ex-students joined thousands of young people and their loved ones from across the UK for a festival-style celebration which was one of four taking place over two days at the Palace, recognising over 8,000 young people who have shown extraordinary perseverance, creativity and resilience to complete their Gold DofE in schools, community organisations, youth groups and workplaces, all over the UK.
Buckingham Palace Garden had been transformed into a festival-style celebration for young people, with giant deckchairs, bunting and garden games and activities. Attendees had the chance to hear from famous DofE Award holders and other inspiring speakers, such as broadcasters Vick Hope and Clive Myrie – both DofE Award holders themselves – astronaut Tim Peake and TV chef Matt Tebbutt. Attendees also had the chance to pick up career advice from actors, presenters, authors and campaigners, at stages throughout the garden.
Ruth Marvel, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: "The young people here today have achieved something exceptional, and it is wonderful to see them celebrating together, sharing their experiences and hearing their aspirations for the future. DofE is all about proving to yourself just what you are capable of, and the young people here today have showed the world that their potential is limitless. I can’t wait to see what they go on to do next.”
We here at Highfields would like to congratulate the students on such a fantastic achievement and we cannot wait to see all that these remarkable young people will go on to achieve.
