Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Gold Presentation

Government House provided a magnificent setting as Old Girls Alexandra Argy, Gabrielle Cheung and Zoe Lindner, alongside current Year 12 students Georgia Cate Baker Wood, Florence Furness, Jemima Lowe and Isabelle Rath-Mazzochi, were recognised by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AO KC, Governor of New South Wales, for achieving their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

The Gold Award represents far more than a certificate of achievement. It reflects months — and often years — of dedication across voluntary service, physical recreation, skill development and adventurous journeys. Throughout their journey, many of these students balanced demanding HSC commitments, overcame personal challenges and pushed themselves beyond their comfort zones in the Australian outdoors.

As these Gold Award recipients move on to university and future careers, they carry with them a globally recognised qualification that reflects their resilience, leadership and commitment. The presentation at Government House was a fitting celebration of their achievements and a reminder that the skills and confidence developed through the Award will continue to shape their futures.

Volunteering – NSW SES Partnership

This month, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) announced a new partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh. Participants are now encouraged to complete one or more sections of the Award through their local NSW SES unit, including the Voluntary Service component.

The partnership offers students valuable opportunities to develop practical life skills, embrace new challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities while working alongside the SES.

 Duke of Edinburgh Service Award at SCEGGS

Students across all Award levels have been knitting and crocheting under the guidance of Ms Chadwick to create items for Mr Lee-Lindsay’s initiative supporting people experiencing homelessness. With the arrival of colder weather, these handmade contributions will no doubt be warmly appreciated by those in need.

Adventurous Journey Training Session

A training session will be held at lunchtime on 18 June for Bronze and Silver Qualifying Journey groups preparing to hike early next term.

I would also like to wish the Silver group heading out this weekend an enjoyable, and hopefully dry, outdoor experience following a busy examination period indoors.

Ms Joanne Bower
NSW Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Leader