DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S INTERNATIONAL AWARD

– Lauren Hargreaves, Head of Student House (Snow), and Sophie Fishpool, Outdoor Education Leader

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Programme has seen impressive growth at Canberra Grammar School, providing students with valuable experiences that build resilience, teamwork, and essential life skills. This year, many students embraced the Adventurous Journey (AJ) component, which takes participants into natural, challenging environments to complete expeditions with purpose and skill.

In 2024, CGS proudly celebrates the achievements of 10 students who attained their Gold Award—a testament to their commitment to personal growth, community service, and adventure.

Congratulations to our Gold Award recipients:

Aarush Mahajan

Angela Xie

Ashley Ingalls

Dylan Outram

Jade Wilson

This year’s AJ took students through the stunning landscapes of Murramarang National Park, where participants at the Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels hiked, camped, developed navigation skills, and canoed across Durras Lake. Surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches, students worked collaboratively to plan routes and meals, fostering independence and confidence in wilderness settings. Evenings were spent around the campfire, where stories and reflections were shared, reinforcing a sense of camaraderie and personal growth. Despite wet weather, students’ determination shone through, and they completed the journey with resilience and a deep appreciation for nature and teamwork.

Gold Award recipient Angela Xie shares:

‘Have you ever imagined sleeping in a cave on the side of a mountain overnight? Luckily, I didn't need to imagine because I had to unexpectedly sleep in a cave on the first night of a four-day camp while completing one of my Duke of Ed expeditions last year. This Gold Award represents three years of dedication towards a goal I am proud to have finally reached. Without this award, I wouldn’t have had the chance to spend the summer in Cambridge or be an ambassador for girls’ education in Sierra Leone and Uganda through my Bronze Award service. We are so lucky to have opportunities at CGS like the Duke of Ed award, and I hope everyone considers taking it on.’

Katherine Stewardson

Michael Rangiah

Nathan Harrington

Nicholas Varela

Sidney Zhang

The popularity of the AJ component has led the Outdoor Education Department to offer these journeys every school holiday, allowing students to pursue their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Awards through different locations and transport modes. For more information, contact the Outdoor Education Department or Ms Lauren Hargreaves at lauren.hargreaves@cgs.act.edu.au.

The Duke of Edinburgh Programme at CGS continues to provide pathways for students to grow personally and prepare for future challenges, with service, skill-building, and outdoor adventure at the core of their achievements.