Feb 09 - Duke presents Duke’s awards
38 pupils of the Royal Alexandra and Albert School collected their Duke of Edinburgh awards from champion boxer Duke McKenzie and the Mayor of Reigate and Banstead, Cllr Roger Newstead on Friday.At a time when there are so many negative stories about teenagers, pupils aged between 14 and 16 at the School were concentrating on the four sections of the programme; expedition, skill, physical recreation and service. Participation in the programme encourages community involvement, often by working with the young or the elderly. It also stretches pupils with the demanding expeditions which take place over a number of days.
Headmaster, Paul Spencer Ellis said “There is tremendous enthusiasm for the Duke of Edinburgh awards programme with around half of eligible pupils working towards an award. This School has an after-school activities programme which enables pupils to try out new skills and hobbies. It is encouraging that so many of our pupils are taking the opportunities they are given and achieving such success with these awards.”
Duke McKenzie addressed the audience which included Duke of Edinburgh award winners from local schools on Friday 30th January. The three-times boxing world champion explained how he put his success down to being committed to his sport and dedicating time and effort to a strenuous training regime.
