The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award at SCEGGS 2026
A big welcome to our new Bronze participants, and a warm welcome back to those continuing the Silver and Gold levels! We hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing holiday and a positive start to the new term.
Over the summer, a group of our Silver participants took part in a Pack and Paddle adventure on the Hawkesbury River, showing great teamwork and determination. Congratulations to everyone who completed this expedition, and to our Gold participants who successfully completed their Gold Residential Projects — a huge achievement!
A special mention goes to Coco Espie, who made SCEGGS proud as a Guest Speaker at the Gold Ceremony at Government House. Coco delivered an inspiring address celebrating her Gold Award achievement. Fellow Gold recipients Avalon Korda, Bridget Murray, Jessica Weatherall, Regan Madison, and I were also honoured to tour Government House and have a special meet and greet with Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC— an unforgettable experience and a proud moment for our school community.
Getting Started
For our Year 9 students, it’s not too late to sign up for the Bronze Award! Please send your permission note to Joanne Bower. Before you begin, take a moment to check the Award’s guidelines on the NSW Duke of Edinburgh website.
Taking part in the Duke of Ed is a wonderful way to step outside, try something new, and make new friends. Spending time outdoors is proven to boost your wellbeing, build resilience, and leave you with some incredible memories — sometimes a little mud and challenge make the best stories!
Looking Ahead
A reminder to all participants: plan your practice Adventurous Journey early! Weather, injuries, or co-curricular commitments can sneak up on us — so getting organised is key. Don’t worry if you don’t yet know everyone in your group; some of the most rewarding memories and leadership experiences come from getting to know people outside your usual circle. Sign-ups for all Adventurous Journeys are on Cognito.
The Award encourages independence, so please take responsibility for your emails, forms, and journey logistics. If you have a clash with sport or another activity, do your best to coordinate and resolve it early, it’s up to you to manage and resolve it.
Key Reminders
- Return your permission note and complete your online registration.
- Confirm your Assessors early — if they’re not SCEGGS staff, please ensure they’ve read and returned the NSW Assessor’s Volunteering Guide.
- Update your online Record Book regularly with a quick reflective 1 sentence per log!
- If you hit any technical snags, contact the Duke of Ed Help Desk at 1300 4 DUKES (1300 4 38537) or email here.
- And most importantly — keep that positive spirit alive! Every small challenge brings an opportunity for growth.
We’re looking forward to another exciting year full of discovery, challenges, and laughter. Here’s to exploring new paths, appreciating the beauty of the bush, and making memories that last a lifetime.
Ms Joanne Bower
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Leader
