Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Ceremony - 13 August

The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Ceremony was held at Government House on 13 August and it was a privilege and an honour to see the following students achieve their Gold Awards.

To quote the words of the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO Governor-General of New Zealand:

“During my term of office as Governor-General, two principles underpinning my programme of work are kaitiakitanga - our obligation to look after things that are precious and vulnerable, especially in the natural world; and manaakitanga - our obligation to care for others. These principles align with the Duke of Edinburgh’s concern for the environment, and also with his view that responsible adults should demonstrate ‘a spirit of compassion and tolerance, a sense of humanity and concern for others’.

My hope is that the recipients of the Awards established in the Duke of Edinburgh’s name will develop a similar life-long sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of others and the environment. In this way, they can embody the leadership that will enable us all to address the challenges of our times.”

These students are all pursuing their careers and studying at universities in New Zealand, but they all completed their award at Palmerston North Girls’ High and we are extremely proud of their achievements:

Congratulations to the following students:

• Annabel Chilcott

• Maggie Fang

• Madeleine Williams

• Anna Kelly

Below are some highlights from the recipients of the Gold Award:

Annabel Chilcott

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was a highlight of my time at high school. The programme enabled me to have fun, grow as a person and learn life skills along the way. The challenges pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me more confidence to try new things in the future. One of my favourite memories was walkin the beautiful Abel Tasman for my final Gold Adventurous Journey with some of my closest friends.”

Maggie Fang

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award allowed me to experience some of the most invaluable experiences I had as a high school student. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, which opened a world of friendships, opportunities and adventures that I otherwise would not have experienced - especially being the shy little teenager that I once was. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s community. Thank you so much for all the opportunities. Participating in this Award was definitely one of the best decisions I have made in my life so far!”

Anna Kelly

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award ignited my passion for the outdoors and led me to discover new places, cultures and people. My participation in the Award challenged me to develop confidence, leadership and resilience, skills that I value in all aspects of my life. I will be forever grateful for my teachers, family and friends who encouraged me to get involved.”

Madeleine Williams

“I really enjoyed the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Through this programme I have developed a lot more confidence to put myself out there and I made valuable friendships along the way. It has really encouraged me to expand my horizons and helped me to pursue my passion for spending time in the outdoors doing sport, tramping and volunteering.”