Friday 7 July 2023 Twenty five students from The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) received the much-coveted Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) this year, alongside three former students who earned the top accolade. Current pupils receiving their Gold awards this year are: Daniel, Oliver, Amelia, Risha, Danya, Molly, Kian, Amelie, Michael, Annabella, Shriyaa, Alexander, Eve, Oluwaseyitan, Olivia, Lewis, Jason, Theodore, Amara, Ella, Mona, Maria, Charlotte, Eshaan and Neve. The hard-working group attended the gold award ceremony at Buckingham Palace with their parents in May this year. Also in attendance were GSAL alumni Molly Gray (GSAL22), George Foster (GSAL19) and Teddy Hope (GSAL22) also receiving their gold awards. Attendees had the chance to hear from famous DofE Award holders, sporting legends and international adventurers, as well as gaining invaluable career advice from actors, presenters, authors and entrepreneurs also in attendance. The Duke of Edinburgh was also present to congratulate attendees at what was his first Award celebrations as the charity’s Patron. In a speech from the Palace’s West Terrace, The Duke congratulated attendees and later, met with them to hear all about their achievements and positive impact the D of E award has had on them. Year 13 student Lewis shared his thoughts: “D of E has been a reward in itself; making new friends, pushing myself to limits I never thought I had and discovering new skills and places.” To achieve a Gold award, students must complete five sections that involve helping the community/environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, planning, training for and completing an expedition and, for Gold only, working with a team on a residential activity. (pictured above) Y13 students L-R: Olivia, Lewis, Kian, Alexander and Michael with their parents General Senior School Alumni News
