Duke of Edinburgh Award at Priory

Humanities teacher Mrs Cauchi will lead the Duke of Edinburgh scheme in Priory now Mr Watters has retired. 

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a nationally and internationally recognised award, favoured by employers and universities alike. The programme builds confidence, dedication and commitment, attributes we all want to see in our young people, and demand for the DofE is greater today than ever before.

Mrs Cauchi said it made sense for her to do it as, in her spare time, she loves the outdoors. 

“It’s what I do out of school,” she said. “I walk my dogs and go wild camping so it made sense for me to step up into the role. 

“I didn’t get the chance to do my Duke of Edinburgh in school so I want to make sure pupils at Priory have their chance. 

“Hopefully it will be open to all pupils but the current Year 9, then Year 10, will have the chance to sign up this month. 

“It’s beautiful around here with the Forest of Bowland and Rivington Pike so I am looking forward to exploring with the pupils. 

“We will start with bronze level but hopefully in the future we will offer silver as well."

The Bronze Award has been launched to Year 9 pupils during assemblies over the past few weeks. Those taking part will complete a programme of activities in four sections that involve volunteering, physical, developing a new skill and completing an expedition.  Pupils will need to complete a minimum of three months in each and choose one to focus on for six months.

Before being enrolled onto the Bronze Award pupils wanting to participate are asked to fill out a preliminary activity sheet and have this signed by Mrs Cauchi before Wednesday, 25 October, to ensure what they are planning to do is acceptable.

There will be a parents and pupils information evening on Monday, 9 October at 5pm for those wish to find out more about what is expected before making any commitment.  If you would like to attend the event, please email Mrs Cauchi at m.cauchi@priory.lancs.sch.uk before 12 noon on Monday. 

A copy of the letter which has been issued to Year 9 pupils interested in the scheme is available from the school website at >> https://www.priory.lancs.sch.uk/parents/letters