Students, graduates, families, staff and supporters came together for an uplifting celebration recognising the amazing dedication, resilience and determination of students achieving their Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Awards.
The event, held for the first time at our dedicated DofE Outdoor Centre, celebrated achievements of students who have taken on volunteering, physical challenges, skills development and expeditions as part of the programme.
We recognised students who have achieved Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, alongside those receiving Progress and Achievement certificates for their personal development within the programme. It was a relaxed and happy atmosphere as awards were presented and guests explored the outdoor centre, including its outdoor classrooms, fire pit, tent area, traversing wall and canoe simulator. In true DofE style, guests were treated to bacon sandwiches.
Paul Bradshaw, Director of Student Services, Safeguarding and Wellbeing, welcomed guests before we enjoyed a performance by the College’s Performing Arts sign, song and dance group, DOT (Derwen on Tour). Dedicated DofE staff leaders, including DofE Coordinator Steve Evans, were also recognised for their support.
Bronze Awards were presented by Graham Wynn, representing The Wynn Foundation, which has sponsored students at Derwen College for the past three years. Silver and Gold Awards were presented by Gill Hamer, Shropshire Deputy Lieutenant, who attended on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant.
Thank you to sponsors
Representatives from supporting organisations Cae Glas Lodge, Lodge of St Oswald, Oswestry Masonic Fellowship and The Wynn Foundation also attended, alongside College Governors Bob Bell, Paul Crosby and Abi Plowden.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award gives young people the opportunity to develop skills for life and work through volunteering, physical activity, learning new skills and taking part in expeditions.
The event followed a memorable year for Derwen College’s DofE programme. In May 2026, students who had achieved their Gold Awards were invited to Buckingham Palace for a special garden party celebration.
Proudest moment
Parent Ray Jump, whose daughter Jess has achieved her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and trained to become a Young Leader, said: “DofE has given Jess the confidence to push herself, grow in independence and realise what she is capable of. Achieving her Gold Award and attending Buckingham Palace has been one of the proudest moments of our lives.”
DofE Young Leader Jess thanked staff leaders, including Gold expedition leader Steve Evans, on behalf of students and families, and presented Steve with a trophy of his own. She said: “It has been hard work, but we have enjoyed every step of the way. Thank you for helping, believing in us, encouraging us and supporting us on this journey. Your kindness, patience and support mean the world. Achieving our awards is something we will always be proud of.”
Derwen College has been delivering the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award since 2014 and was the first provider in Shropshire to run the programme for a group of participants with SEND. The College is now a directly licensed Duke of Edinburgh’s Award centre. Since the programme began, students have achieved 252 Bronze Awards, 209 Silver Awards and 94 Gold Awards, reflecting the College’s long-standing commitment to making DofE accessible to young people with SEND.
