The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award provides students at CGGS with the opportunity to develop into well-rounded human beings, to challenge themselves in the outdoors, and to have their accomplishments recognised in a formal way.
The Award is offered at a Bronze, Silver and Gold level, depending on students’ age and level of commitment. Available at CGGS to students from Year 9 to 12, the Award involves logging weekly participation in the areas of Physical Recreation, Skills and Service. Many students find they already undertake these activities through areas such as sport, music and volunteering, so the Award becomes a great way of recognising this commitment.
The most recognised and rewarding part of the program is the expeditions. Each Award level involves two Adventurous Journeys, where students venture into the wilds of the Snowy Mountains, Budawangs and other beautiful locations in the ACT and surrounds to challenge themselves physically and mentally in a supportive, group environment.
As well as being a highly regarded accomplishment, achieving a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can help students gain entry into university. The ANU now accepts a Gold or Silver Award as fulfilling all aspects of their co-curricular requirements, while UNSW will grant Gold Award recipients two bonus ATAR points.