Duke of Edinburgh's Award - 100th Gold

The presentation to 18 year old Philippa Harris from Boughton Lees marked the 100th young person from Kent to achieve a Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award in one year.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award has been delivered in Kent for at least 35 years, through Kent County Council's Youth Service.  It is aimed at encouraging young people aged 14-24 to get involved in activities which help their own personal development as well as helping out in their local community and helping others.
 
Since 2005, 474  Golds have been awarded to young people in the county. 4000 young people enrolled onto the programme in 2009/10 and at any one time, there are around 6500 undertaking the Award at Bronze/Silver/Gold level.
 
Philippa attends Highworth Grammar and she has also completed her Bronze and Silver Awards while at school.  For her Gold Award she got involved in animal welfare, dog handling training, dancing and took part in a four day expedition in the Peak District.
 
Philippa said:
"It's a big commitment but fun and rewarding at the same time. It got me doing things I wouldn't normally have done."
 
The photograph above shows Philippa being presented with her Award by Avtar Sandhu, Deputy Cabinet Member for Community Services at Kent County Council.