Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Gold Presentation

It’s not often that I get to don my finery and enjoy a morning in the finest surroundings of Holyrood Palace, so it was a huge pleasure to recently attend the Gold Awards presentation of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. The occasion is one of huge celebration for the young people involved and for the families, organisations and supporters who have accompanied them on their journey of achievement.  And wow what dedication and enthusiasm was on display from the young people and modesty too! So much to celebrate and a real sense of camaraderie and community as they shared stories and swapped tales of the expeditions, volunteering, physical, skills and residential elements of their award. HRH The Earl of Wessex did a marvellous job in listening to the young people, as he met each group in turn and asked about the changes that had come about as a result of their participation. Apparently ‘tidier bedrooms’ was not one of the changes parents had witnessed !

All in all, it was a real pleasure to see so many young people from all sections of Scottish society, being celebrated and encouraged to go on and use their experience and achievements. If we could bottle this enthusiasm and dedication and add to it the magic that keeps the rain away from a Scottish summer’s day , we’d be on to a real winner !