Four tenacious Varsity College Alumni were awarded the Duke of Edinburgh’s highest achievement by His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland, at last month’s Duke of Edinburgh’s International Awards.
Kaitlin Barwick (Class of 2019), Aaron Davis (Class of 2019), Georgia Davis (Class of 2017) and Lily Nidea (Class of 2020) were all recognised for their outstanding commitment to the five areas of physical recreation, skills, voluntary service, adventurous journey and a residential project.
The Gold Award program spans 12 to 18 months and requires young people to select activities and set goals towards their desired outcome, assisted by mentors along the way.
Lily’s story has been captured by Education Queensland and is a beautiful example of the path this award creates for youth. Lily credits staff members Nicola Berry and Paul Sochanik for their support and guidance throughout the program and we are grateful to all staff who take on this role for our students undertaking the Bronze, Silver and Gold Award levels.
Lily outlines her experience and plans for the future in the article link below.
https://qed.qld.gov.au/about-us/news-and-media/lilys-zest-for-life
The Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award encourages participants to challenge themselves and contribute meaningfully to their local community. This Internationally recognised youth development program is credited with not only assisting young people with getting out of their comfort zone, creating new relationships, extending skill sets and contributing to those around them, but is also an avenue to boost QCE points for those in years 10 -12.
For more information on The Duke of Edinburgh International Award and how you can be involved visit:
https://www.qld.gov.au/youth/be-involved-have-your-say/youth-programs/duke-of-ed
