Duke of Edinburgh awards for St Mary's

In front of a full college assembly, the 2009 St Mary's cohort of students was presented with a series of individual section and full Bronze Awards.

With a backdrop of images showing the range of activities carried out by the students, George Collier from the Duke of Edinburgh Award publicity office along with Craig Ribbons, Head of college and Simon Leader, expedition and scheme leader, spoke in detail about the fantastic achievements made by all of the students.

In addition to camping and hiking around Bodiam Castle and the South Downs, the students worked through a range of volunteering, physical and individual skill exercises. Highlighted examples included work carried out in local charity shops, success through competing in judo and the specialist skills required to train a bird of prey.

Mr Neil Masterton, Director of Residential and Community Services, said, 'Once again a large group of students have succeeded in attaining a nationally recognised award. Not only have they worked successfully as a group planning and carrying out their expeditions; they have all grown as individuals through recognising and practising their own, unique skills. It is inspiring to see them achieve their goals.'