Evie Receives Gold at Buckingham Palace 

Year 13’s Evie travelled to London last week, to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace where she received her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award from Prince Edward.  An outstanding achievement, Evie shared details about the day and how she feels about her experience. 

Year 13’s Evie 

Last Monday I was fortunate enough to be invited to Buckingham Palace for a celebration event and to receive my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.  

This was an exclusive event for those holding a Gold DofE Award to receive personal congratulations from the Duke of Edinburgh himself, Prince Edward. 

To achieve the Gold Award, five sections must be completed, a skill for 18 months, a physical activity for 12 months, volunteering for 12 months as well as a week-long residential and expedition.  

The inspirational individuals, such as Tim Peak and Frank Gardner who spoke at the event, commented on the resilience and determination needed to complete these sections; explaining  how the skills learnt through the DofE programme can be used in later life.  

During the day I had the opportunity to meet Prince Edward, hear incredible stories from inspirational individuals and have tea and cake in the Palace gardens.  

Overall, It was an incredible experience and I am very grateful to Woodbridge School, specifically Mr Garvie the School’s Duke of Edinburgh Co-ordinator,  for giving me the opportunity to complete the award.