The College is celebrating after one of its students, Benjamin Gowans, completed the challenging Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, whilst still studying at College!

Benjamin, a full time student studying for a BTEC Extended Diploma in Games Programming and Software Development, has joined the elite group of students past who have completed the full Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award!

The former Clitheroe Royal Grammar School student has worked tirelessly through the five sections of the programme, engaging in numerous activities to encompass each section: coaching Karate (Volunteering), martial arts (Physical), learning computer programming (Skills), a four day visit to the Peat Rigg Centre (Residential), plus a four day excursion around Silverdale (Expedition) – this is one of the most eagerly anticipated sections which participants must complete, which involves them planning a route and completing it, camping out overnight over a 4 day period.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award has challenged millions of people since its beginning in 1956. The Award encourages young people to try new things, learn more about themselves and work together for the benefit of themselves and their communities. Persistence, commitment and personal development are strongly rewarded and each of the five sections of the Award are rigorously assessed. Employers and universities alike recognise the importance of the Award, the world’s leading achievement award for young people!

Benjamin will soon be attending the national Gold Award Ceremony, where he will have the exciting opportunity to meet HRH The Duke of Edinburgh or HRH The Earl of Wessex!