The four alumni were invited to a Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award Holders' Garden Party in recognition of successfully completing the highest level of the prestigious award. The event brought together young people from across the country to celebrate their achievements and recognise the commitment, resilience and determination required to complete the Gold Award.

During the day, the Stannites heard from a number of inspiring speakers, including entrepreneur Sara Davies of Dragon's Den fame, who spoke about leadership, ambition and building a successful business. They also listened to Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh and double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes, who reflected on the courage, perseverance and resilience that underpin the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Whilst the invitation to Buckingham Palace was a fitting celebration, what stands out most to us at Windermere School is the lasting impact that the Gold Award has had on each of these young people. The skills developed through the programme have already helped shape their futures, supporting degree apprenticeship applications, university places and career aspirations.

Laura: Building Confidence for a Career with Airbus

For Laura, completing the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award played an important role in helping her secure a degree apprenticeship with Airbus.

Reflecting on her experience, Laura credits the Award with developing her teamwork, communication, resilience and problem-solving skills – qualities highly valued by employers.

"The part I enjoyed most was the expedition in the Cairngorms," she explains. "Working closely with my team to navigate challenging terrain, make decisions under pressure and overcome obstacles together was a fantastic experience. It pushed me outside my comfort zone and taught me the importance of supporting others and staying positive when things don't go to plan."

Alongside her studies, Laura balanced volunteering, physical activities and skill development, building confidence, independence and strong time-management skills.

"These experiences gave me practical examples to talk about during my apprenticeship application and interview. I believe the skills and confidence I gained through Gold DofE helped me stand out and prepared me for the challenges of starting a career with Airbus."

Ian: Engineering Ambitions Inspired Through DofE

Ian's standout Gold DofE experience was his residential week with Swansea University, where he participated in an engineering programme alongside students from across the UK.

Working as part of a team, Ian helped design, produce and test a 3D-printed prototype inspired by the Bloodhound car project.

"The experience helped develop my engineering knowledge, communication skills and problem-solving abilities while giving me the opportunity to collaborate with new people and learn from different perspectives," he said.

The residential strengthened Ian's ambition to pursue a career in civil engineering and has helped pave the way for his degree apprenticeship with EDF.

Sam: Skills for Life Beyond School

For Sam, who has recently completed a Degree Apprenticeship in Chartered Business Management at the University of Cumbria and graduates this summer, the Gold Award offered opportunities to rediscover existing passions and give back to the school community.

"My most memorable parts of DofE were playing the piano, as this was a skill I had when I was younger but was able to restart in Sixth Form and continue today for pleasure," he reflected.

Sam also enjoyed coaching younger pupils in hockey and looks back fondly on the expedition in the Cairngorms National Park.

Following graduation, he plans to continue his role at The Heft in High Newton while also making time for travel and new adventures.

Poppy: A Passion for Veterinary Science

Poppy is currently completing her first year studying Veterinary Bioscience at Harper Adams University and will begin the Veterinary Medicine with Veterinary Surgery degree at Harper and Keele Veterinary School this September.

Her Gold DofE journey provided memorable experiences that strengthened both her confidence and career aspirations.

"My standout memories are both the practice expedition, where we wild camped by Easdale Tarn, and the qualifying expedition where we climbed Snowdon – something I would love to do again."

Poppy also thoroughly enjoyed her residential placement at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, where she spent a week working as a ranger alongside other DofE participants.

"There I learnt about animal welfare and conservation and even helped train animals including polar bears, sea lions and wallabies for veterinary health checks."

A Lasting Impact

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award has long been an important part of life at Windermere School, providing pupils with opportunities to challenge themselves, develop new skills and build confidence beyond the classroom.

As one parent reflected:

"As a parent, I feel that by providing the opportunity of the Gold DofE experience, Windermere School has given students wonderful experiences and memories that they otherwise would not have had."

Laura, Ian, Poppy and Sam's achievements demonstrate exactly why the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award remains such a valuable and transformative experience. From expeditions in the mountains of Scotland and Wales to a celebration at Buckingham Palace, each has gained skills, friendships and memories that will stay with them for life.

We are incredibly proud of all four Stannites and look forward to following their future successes.