Woodham Academy are delighted to announce that 35 year 11 students have completed the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. Through the Leadership Academy programme, students have shown great perseverance, resilience and determination to accomplish this award in unprecedented circumstances. Woodham Academy became a licence holder for the Duke of Edinburgh Award in 2019 and are indebted to GAMP for their funding contribution which made it possible for the school to offer the programme to Key Stage 4 students. Brian Riley, Great Aycliffe & Middridge Partnership Coordinator, said, “the GAMP Board are proud that the young people achieved their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards recently and their effort and dedication was outstanding. It is always a pleasure for the GAMP Board to support young people’s projects such as this, well done to all the young people concerned and the staff at Woodham Academy.” This award helps to encourage students to raise their aspirations, become leaders and have a prosperous future. Consequently, it is recognised nationally and internationally by universities and employers. We are extremely proud of our students’ achievements, they have worked so hard as a team to gain this qualification.
There are three separate components to The Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award for which evidence is gained over a period of 3-6 months. These are, participating in a physical activity, developing a new skill and volunteering. Students select what they want to do for each section based on individual interests and complete each component within the local community. The physical section involves improving fitness through the completion of a physical activity and enhance performance within this. Students participated in a variety of activities such as football, running, water polo and horse riding. For the skill section, students selected an activity to broaden their understanding and expertise in a specific area. Woodham students developed languages, artistic skills and cookery skills.
As part of the volunteering section, students were required to take an active role in the local community and gain invaluable work experience too. Some students volunteered by working in Defoe Court Care Home where they participated in seasonal events and formed relationships with residents. Others took on the role of coaches for local sports groups and have continued with this since completing the award. Some elected to volunteer with younger children through Girl Guiding, working with 8th Newton Aycliffe Rainbows, helping support children aged 5-7 by organising crafts and games. Year 11 student Megan Ellwood stated, “since completing the volunteer section of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, I feel inspired to make a difference to the lives of other people in the community. This award has built my confidence and enriched my life skill set which will be beneficial to my future.”
In addition to all the other components, to achieve the Bronze Award, students need to undertake an expedition section which was adapted to meet Covid regulations. Students worked in small groups to train, plan routes and use map skills to navigate in the local area. These were applied when leading their group. The expedition involved a 12 mile walk along the Great Aycliffe Way and concluded with students erecting tents and making meals on camping stoves. This section encouraged independence and inspired students to develop initiative and a spirit of adventure. Students thoroughly enjoyed the challenges that the expedition presented and the many new experiences. The expedition encompasses leadership skills and all students showed great perseverance to complete the challenge.
Congratulations to all Woodham Academy students for their commitment and dedication to complete this prestigious Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Mr Bell, Headteacher, added “The Duke of Edinburgh Award has been a brilliant experience for all involved. The students, staff and parents have all been superb. This is just one of many extra-curricular opportunities available at Woodham Academy, which will continue to be a key feature of our expanding school.”
