News & Headteacher Blogs

The annual presentation evening for our Duke of Edinburgh students took place last Thursday, celebrating the achievements of 68 of our students who have completed either their Bronze or Silver awards over the last year.

The event was attended by Mrs Read, the Operations Officer for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. She listened to our students talking about their D of E journey and then Headteacher, Mr Prosser presented them with their certificates.  The Award which has been running for seven decades, allows students to get actively involved in volunteering opportunities, physical activities, learning life skills and taking part in expeditions.

Biology teacher, Miss Humphries who leads the Duke of Edinburgh programme at The Downs School said she was extremely proud of her students and their achievements. “Over the last year these students have dedicated a huge 952 hours to our community, they have spent almost a 1200 hours developing an exciting skill or learning a new one, and an incredible 1,632 hours taking part in physical activities,” she said.

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a personal journey which sets challenges, expands horizons and encourages participants to think for themselves,” she added. “It builds self-esteem and shows just what can be achieved when youngsters set themselves goals and work as a team.”

The Downs School has been running the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme for eight years, and during this time 233 students have gained awards.