STUDENTS at Christopher Whitehead Language College and Sixth Form working towards the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Awards welcomed Worcester’s MP Robin Walker.
Many of those stories from recent expeditions and spoke about the benefits of the DofE Award and the effect it has had on their personal development.
Over the past year alone participants from the school have collectively given 1,911 hours – about two-and-a-half months – of voluntary service to the local community, with a social value of £8,312.
Mr Walker also spoke to teaching staff who volunteer their time to support students in achieving their DofE Award.
Speaking after the visit, David Hunt, DofE manager and chemistry teacher, said: “Since 2010 when the first students signed up to the DofE Award at CWLC, we have seen an improvement in the resilience of participants.
“Students realise that relying on themselves and each other can result in positive outcomes and increased enjoyment.
Mr Walker added: “The young people I met were enthusiastic about the support they got from their teachers and from the Duke of Edinburgh scheme more generally and excited about the opportunity to progress from bronze to silver to gold.
“It was wonderful to see so many people who were being inspired to challenge themselves and go outside their comfort zone whilst also making a real contribution to the community.
“In the aftermath of the pandemic opportunities to socialise with peers, take part in team activities and physical activity in general are more important than ever.
“It was clear from the students I met that the scheme is supporting their physical and mental health as well as giving them valuable development opportunities.”
