Congratulations to Zoe Luffman and Sharon Wilson who have both completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh award this year! Find out more about this great programme and hear from Zoe and Sharon.

Duke of Edinburgh at MGC

To achieve the Gold Award 

• Zoe learnt acoustic guitar, developed her fitness to compete in the Spirited Women Adventure Race and cleared traplines to help with bird recovery in Marlborough. She also attended a three week Outward Bound Course. 
• Sharon spent over a year building her fitness, learning the flute and working the sound desk at her church and went on an Outward Bound course to meet the remaining requirements.

In addition to Zoe’s accomplishment, there have been 30 students who have been working on their Bronze Award with ten students completing their Bronze Award in 2021. Currently, there are 11 students working on either Silver or Gold Award.  

The Duke of Edinburgh programme is available to 12 to 24 year olds across the motu, and is a progressive programme working through Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. MGC students are encouraged to contact Mrs Nicci Leitch on nicci.leitch@mgc.school.nz to find out more and register for 2022!

Zoe Luffman - my experience

Over my time at MGC I have been participating in the Duke of Edinburgh program. This has enabled me to give back to the community through the service scheme as well as work on my own personal development through the physical activity and skills components.

This year I was focused on completing my Gold award and as part of this had to undertake a Residential Project. For me, this was the highlight of the whole program as I was lucky enough to go on a 3 week Outward Bound course which helped me to grow as a person and boost my self-confidence.

I would definitely recommend taking up the challenge of Duke of Ed as it is a fulfilling and satisfying challenge that allows you to spend time doing the things you love.

By Zoe Luffman