By Matt Scorer

A group of students are nearing the completion of their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award having recently completed their final expedition. 

Joint Leader, and Head of Geography, Matt Fitton said: "The students have worked incredibly hard and shown a lot of dedication in working towards attaining their Bronze Awards. They have put in a lot of extra hours after school and we must not forget they even did a two day practice run of the expedition."

The final expedition saw three groups of students go on a two day hike around the Peak District in fine weather conditions for hiking and camping.

To complete the expedition the students made presentations about their expeditions and how they were prepared to other students at the College.

Duke of Edinburgh Awards are open to anybody from the age of 14 to 25. The awards come in 3 levels bronze, silver and gold. Participants then set targets in four key categories: volunteering, physical activity, social skills and undertake an expedition which incorporates skills from the other categories.

Mr. Fitton added: "The expedition was the final step towards to achieving the award. The expedition was incredibly successful. The support the students received from both their parents and other members of staff was second to none and a huge thank you is owed to all of them.

Principal Bernie Hunter said: "The Duke of Edinburgh Award's are a fabulous way of students developing themselves in important ways as well as developing and teaching them new skills. The expeditions are very popular and encompass a wide variety of skills which will serve the youngsters well in future life. I'd like to thank everybody who has helped with the running of the scheme this year."

There are plans to run the award again this year. Anyone interested should speak to Mr. Fitton or Miss. Chamberlain.