Celebrating Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards success

Jess received her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award as well as the Kirstin Royle Award.

College celebrated the determination, teamwork and resilience of more than 60 students at a special Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards ceremony on Saturday, 4 October.

Held at our Gobowen campus, the atmosphere was one of celebration and pride, as students were presented with certificates for their achievements in Bronze, Silver and Gold awards.

The event brought together students, their families, college staff, local dignitaries and supporters to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The awards were presented by special guests including the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, Jenny Wynn, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, Veronica Lillis, and Oswestry Mayor Councillor Rosie Radford, who commended students for their resilience, dedication and sense of adventure. These young achievers have walked, canoed or sailed through miles of challenging terrain and British weather. They’ve also volunteered in their communities, developed new skills, and pushed personal boundaries.

Governor Abi Plowden presented Dylan with the Young Leader’s award.

Dylan is our first ever Young Leader

Student Dylan made history, becoming Derwen’s first participant to complete the DofE Young Leaders Programme. Supporting other students on their DofE journey, Dylan proved himself a dedicated and inspiring role model – the first young leader with SEND in the Shropshire and Wrekin area, and one of just 10 across the county. Alongside mentoring others, he achieved his Silver Award and is currently working towards Gold.

The Kirstin Royle Trust Award, recognising exceptional perseverance, was awarded to Jess Jump, whose personal DofE journey has been marked by courage and determination. Jess’s commitment inspired fellow students and staff alike, making her a worthy recipient of this special award.

Incredibly proud

Paul Bradshaw, Head of Student Services and DofE leader, hosted the ceremony, saying:

“Every student here today has faced their own challenges, and overcome them with courage and commitment. DofE isn’t easy – and that’s the point. It’s about pushing yourself, learning new things and finding out what you’re capable of. We’re incredibly proud of each and every one of our participants.”

Video messages from Derwen College Principal and CEO Meryl Green, and DofE Central England Operations Officer James Minor, were played during the ceremony, offering personal congratulations to all award recipients.

Student Thomas and family celebrated his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award with Shropshire Vice Lord-Lieutenant Jenny Wynn at the ceremony which was followed by a reception in The Orangery Restaurant.

Guests also enjoyed a video montage of Derwen’s DofE highlights – including last March’s special visit from HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward.

Now in its 11th year, Derwen College’s DofE programme was one of the first of its kind within a specialist college. Since then, almost 400 students have achieved awards through the scheme. The College is now a fully registered DofE Award provider, with a dedicated DofE base on its Gobowen campus.

Paul Bradshaw offered special thanks to the sponsors and community supporters who help to make the programme possible through generous donations.