TRIBUTE has been paid to students who have completed a range of challenges as part of a renowned awards scheme.

Pupils at Parkside School in Cullingworth have taken part in various activities towards the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

In July, over 50 students completed the expedition section for the bronze award.

Two expeditions were held – one for year nine pupils who had registered for the award earlier in the academic year, and the other for year ten students who had been unable to complete their expedition last summer due to the Government restrictions designed to stop the spread of Covid-19.

The expedition co-ordinator and head of science at Parkside, Dr Hayley Evans, said: “Students started the section by completing training in camp craft, first aid and map reading, where they showed they were eager to learn and develop as a team.

“All students arrived for their expedition the following day, well prepared. They had all the essential items for their two-day hike and were in good spirits.

“The weather was glorious, but not the best for walking! The sunshine meant the students were keen to complete so they could enjoy their time at the campsite! The year nines even enjoyed a game of football.”

Dr Evans said students across both year groups had also been completing other sections of the award – including volunteering, skills and physical – during lockdown.

“This has been a difficult time for a lot of students but the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has given them a focus,” she added.

“Activities that they’ve completed have included running, cycling, learning to play musical instruments, cooking, developing life skills, helping deliver shopping in the local community and tutoring online.

“This meant we could present 28 certificates for the completed award. A massive ‘well done’ goes to all the students who took part!”

For more about the award, visit dofe.org.