More Than 300 South Ayrshire Youngsters Celebrated at Duke of Edinburgh Awards

More than 300 young people from across South Ayrshire have been recognised for completing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at a special ceremony in Ayr Town Hall.

The event, organised by South Ayrshire Council’s Thriving Communities Health and Wellbeing team, celebrated the achievements of young people who had completed their Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. Parents, carers, school staff and members of the wider community were among those in attendance as participants were honoured for their efforts.

The ceremony also gave young people the chance to reflect on the personal progress they had made through the programme, which is open to those aged between 14 and 24.

To achieve Bronze and Silver awards, participants must complete four sections covering volunteering, physical activity, learning a new skill and undertaking an expedition. Those working towards Gold must also complete a residential stay.

The award is designed to help young people build confidence and develop important life skills including resilience, teamwork, communication and problem solving, while also encouraging them to make new friends and contribute to their communities.

Over the past 12 months, participants in South Ayrshire have completed almost 9,000 hours of volunteering, underlining the positive impact the programme continues to have across the area.

George Docherty, South Ayrshire Council’s Assistant Director of Education, said: “It’s wonderful to see so many of our young people take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The programme is a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, teamwork and life skills that will benefit them now and in the future. Well done to everyone who took part.

“The awards ceremony was a fitting celebration, bringing everyone together to recognise these achievements.”