MORE than 150 young people are enrolled on the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Alice Morgan (QE’s DofE co-ordinator) told us.

She explained: “DofE is made up of four sections (Volunteering, Physical, Skill and Expedition), but volunteering has the largest impact on the community and strengthening young people’s self-confidence.

“It gives them a flavour of working with others and helping people and animals that are in need. It's a great foundation for them before they enter the ever-changing world of work."  

The volunteering section of DofE see students giving up an hour of their time a week to support others in the community - that's over 150 hours a week young people are collectively giving back to their communities!

She added: “DofE is a fantastic inclusive opportunity of purpose and something to be part of to strengthen their community.

“The large numbers suggest students want to help and develop their community to make it a better place. I'm really proud of all the students and wish them every success in completing their award.”

Most students in Crediton and the surrounding area are helping with the coaching at their local rugby, dance and football clubs.

In addition, DofE students are volunteering at local community shops, The Bookery, Crediton Library, foodbanks, their previous primary schools, nursing homes, Youth Club and maintaining local village halls and churches.

There have also been many students that undertake litter picking!  

Alice continued: “The most interesting volunteering placement we had at QE was counting penguins in Argentina on an online charity website during home restrictions, it's worth a look!"

If you want to get involved in DofE, contact Alice at QE School.