THREE students from Desborough College have been awarded their Gold Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Awards at the prestigious Buckingham Palace Garden ceremony.

Luke Arnold, Will Mackay, and Luke Maury are the first ever students to complete their Gold Awards since the school first introduced the Bronze Award in 1980, followed by the Silver Award in 2019 and the coveted Gold Award in 2021.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a youth programme that recognises youth recipients for completing exercises in four sections, volunteering, physical, skills and expeditions. Gold Award participants additionally complete a residential section.

Over the past 24 months, the three young men volunteered in local charity shops and sport programmes in local schools, developed their skills through cookery courses and obtaining driving licenses, and enhanced their physical abilities in football, hockey and cycling.

Their efforts were capped with a challenging expedition which tested their mettle in the rainy hills of Snowdonia, North Wales. Their expedition assessor from BXM Outdoors, James Smith, said: "With challenging weather and arduous terrain, the team displayed fantastic character and perseverance while demonstrating a positive attitude and charismatic personality through their conversation and affability."

Desborough College head of history and politics Adam Collins said: "As their DofE Manager, I couldn't be prouder of the boys. Their commitment to personal growth, community service and outdoor adventure has been truly inspiring. Watching them overcome challenges and grow into more confident and capable individuals has been a rewarding experience.

“They have set a high standard and are shining examples of what can be accomplished with hard work and determination.”

Pioneer Educational Trust chief executive officer Antonia Spinks added: “We are so proud of our students for this incredible achievement. These accomplishments reflect Desborough College's commitment to fostering personal growth, leadership and resilience among its students.

"The school takes pride in its comprehensive DofE program, which has continually evolved to provide students with meaningful opportunities for development.”