Students, families, staff and supporters came together for an uplifting celebration at Derwen College, recognising the dedication, resilience and determination of students achieving their Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Awards.

The event, held at the specialist further education college’s Gobowen campus near Oswestry on Saturday, 27 June, celebrated young people who have taken on volunteering, physical challenges, skills development and expeditions as part of the programme.

The day recognised students who have achieved Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, alongside those receiving Progress and Achievement certificates for their personal development within the programme. Awards were presented during a relaxed outdoor gathering at the College’s dedicated DofE Outdoor Centre.

Guests were welcomed by Paul Bradshaw, Director of Student Services, Safeguarding and Wellbeing, before enjoying a performance by the College’s Performing Arts sign, song and dance group, Derwen on Tour (DOT). Dedicated DofE staff leaders, including DofE Coordinator Steve Evans, were also recognised for their support.

DofE Young Leader Jess Jump thanked staff leaders, including Gold expedition leader Steve Evans, on behalf of students and families, and presented Steve with a trophy of his own. She said: “It has been hard work, but we have enjoyed every step of the way. Thank you for helping, believing in us, encouraging us and supporting us on this journey. Your kindness, patience and support mean the world. Achieving our Gold Awards is something we will always be proud of.”

Bronze Awards were presented by Graham Wynn, representing The Wynn Foundation, which has sponsored students at Derwen College for the past three years. Silver and Gold Awards were presented by Gill Hamer, Shropshire Deputy Lieutenant, who attended on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant.

Representatives from supporting organisations Cae Glas Lodge, Lodge of St Oswald, Oswestry Masonic Fellowship and The Wynn Foundation also attended, alongside Derwen College Governors Bob Bell, Paul Crosby and Abi Plowden.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award gives young people the opportunity to develop skills for life and work through volunteering, physical activity, learning new skills and taking part in expeditions.

Families also had the chance to explore the Outdoor Centre, including its outdoor classrooms, fire pit, tent area, traversing wall and canoe simulator. In true DofE style, guests were treated to bacon sandwiches.

The event followed a memorable year for Derwen College’s DofE programme. In May 2026, students who had achieved their Gold Awards were invited to Buckingham Palace for a special garden party celebration.

Parent Ray Jump, whose daughter Jess has achieved her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and trained to become a Young Leader, said: “DofE has given Jess the confidence to push herself, grow in independence and realise what she is capable of.

“Achieving her Gold Award and attending Buckingham Palace has been one of the proudest moments of our lives.”

Derwen College has been delivering the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award since 2014 and was the first provider in Shropshire to run the programme for a group of participants with SEND. The College is now a directly licensed Duke of Edinburgh’s Award centre. Since the programme began, students have achieved 252 Bronze Awards, 209 Silver Awards and 94 Gold Awards, reflecting the College’s long-standing commitment to making DofE accessible to young people with SEND.