Students, past and present, celebrated a proud achievement this month when they were invited to Buckingham Palace after completing their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Awards. Twelve graduates and current students attended along with their families and College DofE awards leader Helen Edwards.
One of those celebrating at the Palace was 2025 graduate Brendan, one of the first students at the college to complete a sailing expedition as part of his DofE journey – an alternative to walking or canoeing for students whose disabilities can make those activities more difficult.
Brendan, who graduated last year, completed his Bronze, Silver and Gold awards at Derwen College. He said: “The Duke of Edinburgh is all about challenging yourself to do things you never thought you could do.”
The sailing expedition was the first time he had ever been on a boat. He said: “I learnt a lot about a sailing boat… where the sail is, the boom, the mast. And I had a blast!”
Brendan’s main vocational pathway at Derwen College was Hospitality and Food, where he developed practical skills and enjoyed serving customers during work placements at the College’s café and restaurant, as well as at external business including Premier Inn and McDonalds.
His mum Sarah said: “Learning to live away from home was a huge step for Brendan, but he embraced it from day one. The mix of independence and support was exactly what he needed, and it meant he could move into his adult community with confidence.”
After graduating, Brendan moved to the Camphill community in Milton Keynes, where he now lives with friends and volunteers in the on-site café.
Sarah said the Award scheme had been a huge motivator for her son. “DofE gave Brendan a real sense of achievement. The expeditions taught him how to persevere and keep going, and he is thrilled to have earned his Gold.”
She added: “Without Derwen College, I fear Brendan’s world would have stayed very small. Before college he relied on me for everything, even to answer questions for him. At Derwen College he found his voice. He learned to make his own choices, discovered new experiences and gained real independence.”
Watch our amazing students and graduates at this momentous occasion in the video!