Duke of Edinburgh gets royal approval

By Ballyclare High School on 4 December, 2017

Once again the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme at Ballyclare High has been the centre of attention, this time at St James’ Palace. Open only to the public by Royal patronage, this year’s winter presentation was a particularly special occasion. Six of our pupils who have completed their gold level and who chose to attend the ceremony in London, were presented with their certificates after meeting with HRH Earl of Wessex.  His presence at the palace made the occasion even more personal to the school following his visit here last year as part of the Diamond Anniversary tour to celebrate of the scheme. Kate Thompson, Director of Duke of Edinburgh in Northern Ireland, praised the school for its continued success as the biggest centre in the province, and made special mention of the staff for the support they give pupils to ensure the vast majority who start the scheme complete their bronze, silver and gold levels. She reflected also on the warm welcome afforded to all her staff and the Earl by our staff and pupils during their visit. It was a particular privilege for some of our gold award holders, alongside Dr Rainey and Mrs McCullough, to meet HRH Prince Edward on behalf of the school, and to witness the esteem in which our commitment to the scheme is held by the charity.