FIVE Camborne Science and International Academy students travelled to St James’s Palace in London to receive a prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The presentation, which took place last month, marks the end of a journey which, for some students, started four years ago with the Bronze Award.

“Prince Edward was at the event to meet the young people and congratulate them on their efforts. After meeting the Prince, certificates were presented by celebrity guest John Barrowman,” said Anthony Douglas, director of outdoor education at CSIA.

“The private event took place in the Queen Anne room, which owing to it being filled with priceless pieces of art and furniture is usually inaccessible to the public. It was all very exciting!”

Alicia Jenkin, Taylor Smitheram, Lauren Nankivell, Sioned Macmillan and Aaron Thomas collected their awards together, accompanied by Mr Douglas.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a programme giving students the opportunity to make a difference to other people’s lives, gaining important life skills such as communication, teamwork and resilience.

“Achieving the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a fantastic achievement which takes a minimum of 12 months to achieve. Students must volunteer in their communities, learn new skills and be able to navigate unaided through remote terrain for 4 days at a time. Combining these elements with A-Level studies required incredible commitment and so it is only right that they get to enjoy such a prestigious event at the end of the process!”

With more than 80 students enrolled onto the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s programme this year, CSIA is set to send many more students to the palace in the coming years.

Principal at CSIA, Ian Kenworthy, added: “This incredibly rewarding experience allows students to have invaluable life experience which is crucial to their future success and academic achievement, and prepares them for life outside of the school environment. Congratulations to everyone who achieved their award!”