Moreton student honoured at Duke of Edinburgh’s Award ceremony

Jan 16 2013 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

HUNDREDS of young achievers from across the UK had a date in the prestigious setting of St James’s Palace yesterday – including Sophie Hughes from Moreton.

Sophie attended West Kirby Grammar School, where she achieved her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

She was among those who travelled to London to receive her certificate from the Gold Award holder Prince Edward.

The Gold Award Presentation (GAP) was a celebration and recognition of Sophie’s achievements in completing her Gold DofE programme. The GAP is a unique event and a fitting culmination to mark the hard work, determination and perseverance required.

Sophie worked tirelessly through the five sections of her DofE programme over 12 months to achieve her Gold Award.

Her diverse activities included volunteering at a local farm and Brownie group, training with Wirral Athletic Club and learning skills in first aid and photography throughout the process.

Finally Sophie completed a five-day expedition in Snowdonia, North Wales, along with an independent exercise for a week assisting West Cheshire Sailing Club.

Sophie was able to prove to herself that she could be a great team member and has the ability to make difficult decisions with competence.

Sophie said of her experience: “DofE has allowed me to gain confidence in my own skills and to achieve great friendships and fond memories. Not only does the DofE award benefit the participant but the community, as I undertook community service giving something back to my local area.”

Sophie’s Gold Award helped her gain a place studying Pharmacy at Medway School of Pharmacy in Kent.