Press Release
Duke of Edinburgh success for local young people
Eight local young people celebrated their achievements in gaining Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Awards at a ceremony at Islesburgh Community Centre on Thursday 3rd June, having completed activities as diverse as accordion playing, poetry reading, and athletics.
Over the last year or so, DofE groups in Unst and Lerwick have been working with young people towards the completion of the Awards. All the DofE awards require the completion of a programme of activities in four sections – Volunteering, Skills, Physical recreation and an Expedition. The Awards aim to offer a personal challenge, the chance to learn new skills and to provide service to the community.
Last night’s recipients had completed a range of activities in each of the sections, for periods lasting between three and twelve months. In the Volunteering section, some had been involved with the emergency services, sports coaching or youth groups; whilst in the Skill section, some had been reading literature and improving musical skills. Physical recreation – badminton, fitness, athletics are just some of the activities undertaken.
Expeditions aim to inspire young people to develop initiative and a spirit of adventure and discovery. Young people have undertaken hill walking and camping expeditions linked to local sites of interest, which helped them develop communication, teamwork, leadership and problem solving skills.
Councillor Bill Manson said “Well done to all recipients. It’s heartening to see young Shetlanders being recognized for their great personal achievement and for what they give so positively to our community. Thanks must go to the many dedicated volunteers and group leaders who support young people to achieve so much, and without whom this would not be possible”
There are currently DofE groups running in Anderson High, Whalsay and Baltasound Schools and new groups are forming in Sandwick and Brae. If you would like to find out more about the Award, either as a participant or as a Group Leader, go to www.dofe.org .
Back Row (L to R): Bob Kerr, Andrew Haviland, Caitlin Watt, Mary Haviland, David Noblett, Emily Tulloch, Paul Thomason. Front Row (L to R): Graham Dorrat, Amber Johnson, Kara Manson, Eilidh Peterson, Stephanie Wiseman. (Absent recipients were Anna Macaulay, Chelsea Jamieson, Calum Marshall & Calum McFarlane)