Horsham Collyer's pupils complete gold Duke of Edinburgh award

The group of 20 from Collyer’s travelled more than 40 miles through the Brecon Beacons, with students tackling southern Britain’s highest peak, Pen y Fan, and a circular route, which took in some of the remotest areas of South Wales.

The teams travelled independently, staying in wild campsites with few facilities.

James Gordon, head of faculty for business, sport and social sciences, said: “Completing this arduous challenge is without doubt a phenomenal achievement. The incredibly hot conditions made this a truly challenging expedition, requiring technical discipline, people skills and utter determination.

“To be absolutely honest, it was a case of these brilliant young people achieving almost the impossible. Well done to everyone involved!”

Group one comprised: of Beth Budgen, Ayla Komezec, Harry Sale, Amy Mallows, Will Woolnough; Joel Boyd and Harry Carter. Group two was Josh Barnett, Kieran Minihane, Connor Heathcote, George Makin; Darby Lyons, Klara Dowds and Hannah Gower. Group three featured Lucy Barr, Kathryn Rasanayagam, Isabelle Baines, Abigail Young; Sophie Ansell and Lily Hadfield.

Assistant principal Andrea John said: “I’m particularly impressed with how these students managed to balance a demanding college life, part time work and the gold Duke of Edinburgh award. ”

Students at Collyer’s can complete their gold Duke of Edinburgh award as part of the enrichment activities that are offered to all students.

The programme supports participants through the five sections of the award: physical, service, skills, residential and the expedition.

Collyer’s deputy principal Steve Martell added: “Well done to everyone involved this year! These are exceptional students and we are incredibly proud of their success. They are a credit to Collyer’s and the region’s young people.

“Massive thanks also to our very own James Gordon, Dr Rob Hussey and Melanie Kavanagh for continuing Collyer’s first class participation in the gold Duke of Edinburgh awards.

“They have been absolutely wonderful and I know the students are massively appreciative of the time and support they have given the programme this year.”