History of the Award at the School
On his arrival to the School in September 1968, Mr. David H. Humphreys suggested the introduction of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award to the Board of Management. Mr. Humphreys gave the following account of the Scheme in his letter of 21st of September 1968 to the Board:
- It is intended for boys and girls aged 14 to 20.
- Members attempt progressively three stages of achievement - Bronze, Silver and Gold. Those attaining the Gold standards may choose to receive their Award personally from the Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace.
- In each stage, the aspirant must satisfy the Committee that he or she has attained the prescribed standard in each of a number of different fields of activity, which include:
- a Project of personal interest (for example, at random, the pursuit of a hobby, the completion of a scientific project, learning a musical instrument)
- "Adventurous Training" - camping and cross-country expeditions, such as our Olympus Club already enjoys. There is the obvious common-sense adaptation of this activity for girls.
- A service to the community - one of the St John's Ambulance grades of proficiency, active work among poor people or with the handicapped, and (for girls) child care, are examples of what might be undertaken at the higher standards.
The Headmaster felt that "participation in the Scheme helps a young person to develop his talents, his self-reliance, and (perhaps most important) his sense of responsibility towards his companions and his community. It can also foster a wholly beneficial relationship between these young people and the adults who are helping them."
The Board of Management approved the introduction at the English School of the Duke of Edinburgh's Scheme on the 30th of September 1968.
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