By Isle of Wight Observer
Young people across the Isle of Wight are marking a major milestone, as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award celebrates its 70th anniversary.
Since its launch in 1956, thousands of Island teenagers have taken part, gaining confidence, resilience, and practical skills through volunteering, physical challenges, learning new skills, and outdoor expeditions. The award has become part of Island life, delivered through youth clubs, schools, and voluntary organisations, supporting generations as they prepare for adulthood.
The Isle of Wight Council’s youth and community service began delivering the award in the early years, training leaders to supervise expeditions, and support young people through each section. Mary Brinton, the department’s secretary, oversaw early administration, with the Island’s first Gold Award achieved by Michael Cooper in 1963 and the first female Gold Award by Suzanne Whitewood in 1966. Growing demand led to further investment, including funding from Prince Edward’s Special Fund, and the appointment of Carol Taverner, in 1991, to develop leadership training and support expeditions.
In 2015, a national review placed schools at the centre of delivery, prompting the creation of the Isle of Wight Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Charitable Association, to support volunteers and fund-raise for training. Since 2002, council centres alone have facilitated 1,154 completed awards, including 233 Gold Awards.
This year, five Island Gold Award holders and four leaders will attend a national celebration at Buckingham Palace on May 20, recognising achievements spanning volunteering, music, sport, art, and challenging expeditions. A local celebration at Corf Scout Camp, in September, will bring together young people from across the Island for activities including canoeing, climbing, and orienteering.
Young people, aged 14 to 24, can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through schools or Open Award Centres in Ryde, Newport, or Brading. For more information, email dofe.award@iow.gov.uk, or contact Carol on 07971 605513.
Mal Butler