South Ayrshire celebrates achievements at Duke of Edinburgh's Awards

Over 300 young people from South Ayrshire recently received their Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a ceremony organised by the Council's Thriving Communities - Health and Wellbeing team.

The event, held at Ayr Town Hall, highlighted the accomplishments of individuals completing their Bronze, Silver and Gold level awards and was attended by parents, carers, school staff, and members of the community. The ceremony also provided the opportunity for young people to discuss their personal growth as a result of the programme.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is open to young people aged 14-24 years. To achieve Bronze and Silver awards, individuals must complete four sections: volunteering; participation in physical activity or sport; learning a new skill; and planning and undertaking an expedition. In addition to this, Gold level participants must complete a residential stay.

As a result of these experiences, young people develop key life skills such as resilience; teamwork; communication; and problem solving, whilst making new friends. The programme supports personal growth and ambition, offering a respected qualification that strengthens CVs, personal statements and applications for further education and employment. Over the last 12 months, young people contributed almost 9,000 hours of volunteering within their local communities, showcasing the positive impact of the award across South Ayrshire.

South Ayrshire Council's Assistant Director of Education, George Docherty said: "It's wonderful to see so many of our young people take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The programme is a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, teamwork and life skills that will benefit them now and in the future. Well done to everyone who took part."

"The awards ceremony was a fitting celebration, bringing everyone together to recognise these achievements."

More information on the Duke of Edinburgh's Award in South Ayrshire can be found at: https://www.thedolphinhouse.co.uk/duke-of-edinburgh-award/