This year the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme has looked a little different at Aldenham but has maintained the spirit of the programme in earnest. Pupils and Assessors have adapted to the changing regulations and restrictions admirably and numerous awards have been completed since our return to school in September. A total of 11 awards have been given out this academic year, including seven Bronze Awards, three Silver Awards, and one Gold Award. There are a further 13 pupils who are only a single 'section' away from completing their awards, so these numbers will rise in the coming months.

During the months of September and October a total of 38 students undertook the Bronze Hiking Expeditions in the local countryside. Students developed their map reading, orienteering, and basic camping skills. These expeditions were over two days in a wide variety of weather conditions, but the students were up to the challenge and completed their hikes with a 100% success rate.

We are looking forward to getting back out into Wales, the Lake District and Scotland as soon as it is safe to do so and have scheduled next year's expeditions for May, June, and July in the hopes that this will come to fruition. In the meantime, students are undertaking meaningful ventures in their volunteering, physical, and skills sections of their programmes which have included delivering groceries for elderly neighbours, learning a new language, running a half marathon, improving cooking skills, and tutoring their relatives at home.

The students should be commended for their excellent effort and attitude during these tumultuous times!