A special invitation for Aidan, Year 13 at Loughborough Grammar School, saw him visit Buckingham Palace in May.

Aidan and his father attended the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award Celebration event in the beautiful gardens of Buckingham Palace and were treated to speeches from a variety of inspirational people.

HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, spoke of the special meaning the award has for him personally, and the pride he has for all of those completing it. Aidan even managed to have a chat with the Duke and told him how he would definitely complete the award again if he had the opportunity!

Aidan started working towards the Gold DofE award in September 2021, which consists of five elements: Physical, Skills, Volunteering, Residential and Expedition.

He had the opportunity to try track cycling at a velodrome, volunteer at Bradgate Park, widening his participation in various LSF music ensembles, as well as attending residentials and expeditions, which provided him with some incredible experiences.

Aidan shares his experience: “For the residential, I went to Dorset for a water sports camp – you are not allowed to know anyone else before you go to a residential, so I was quite nervous when I arrived. However, I should not have been worried, as thanks to this camp I have created friendships for life through participating in a variety of team activities such as coasteering, canoeing and climbing.”

“DofE has given me opportunities to do activities that I never thought I would be able to do. It has allowed me to grow my self-confidence and helped me develop my leadership and organisational skills. Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to work in a team, both with friends and strangers, multiple times to achieve a common objective and as a result I have become a more rounded and empathetic person.”

“The Gold DofE adventure is over for me, but I would highly recommend it for anyone wanting and willing to get out of their comfort zone and have new experiences.”