THERE was praise for students from Queen Elizabeth’s School from the Mayor of Crediton at a Presentation of Awards Evening when more than 40 young people from the school received their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Cllr Liz Brookes-Hocking said that she was impressed to hear what the students had done to achieve their awards and said that the volunteering aspect would certainly have made a big difference in the community.

She encouraged all the award winners to continue to the Silver level of the award and to think about continuing with some volunteer work.

“Volunteering is the glue that holds us together, it makes a big difference to people in the community.  It is very important throughout life and you get back what you put in.

“Helping others is so worthwhile,” she added.

She thanked the parents, carers, friends and families who helped the young people achieve their awards and praised them on their achievement.

The success of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme at Queen Elizabeth’s School is quite outstanding.

The school’s Duke of Edinburgh Award Manager Alice Morgan-Nolan explained: “I am really proud to say that Queen Elizabeth’s has one of the biggest percentage of awards achieved in Devon.

“We are the top school behind all the private schools which is a fantastic achievement.”

Head Teacher Paula Smith praised the students.

Speaking to the packed hall of parents and students, she said: “This evening we are here to celebrate an exceptional group of Queen Elizabeth’s students who have successfully completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

“As you all know, the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award is no ordinary achievement.  At its core are the values we want all our young people to develop - teamwork, resilience, leadership, physical fitness and community service.

“It represents a sustained commitment to self-improvement and exploration.

“This award challenges participants to delve into new experiences, conquer their fears, and embrace the spirit of adventure.

“It demands resilience in the face of adversity and instils a deep sense of responsibility towards their surroundings and their peers.

“The D of E Awards really embody the spirit of adventure and perseverance.

“There are only good things that come out of participating.  It is through the pursuit of these awards that our young people have stretched their boundaries, stepped out of their comfort zones, and supassed their own expectations.

“To our students, I congratulate you all.”

She said that the award will provide a foundation for their future and that she hoped it inspired them to continue pushing boundaries.

She echoed thanks to the mentors, volunteers and families, concluding to the students: “We are incredibly proud of your achievements and the people you are becoming.”

During the evening a number of students talked about how they achieved their awards.

Alice Morgan-Nolan gave special thanks to those who assisted with the Award Scheme at QE, Julie and Adam Box, Richard Whitehouse, Patrick Nolan and Sam Cater.