NINETEEN students and graduates from a specialist college near Oswestry were honoured at Buckingham Palace as they received their prestigious gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
The event, hosted by the Duke of Edinburgh himself, Prince Edward, celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of the individuals from Gobowen's Derwen College, who achieved the highest standard in the program.
In total, 23 students and former students were invited to the palace, exemplifying the college's commitment to excellence.
Attaining the gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award requires unwavering dedication and commitment, making it an outstanding feat.
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Flora, one of the recipients, had a particularly memorable experience at Buckingham Palace. While in the front courtyard, she experienced a small seizure due to overwhelming excitement.
Her mother said: “Flora and I had a lovely day and it was great to see the other Derwen students again and celebrate together.
“Flora had a small seizure when we were in the front courtyard of the palace, too excited.
“We were taken inside the palace until she felt better and then instead of going back out and round to the garden we were taken by a footman through the palace and came out the door the King apparently uses.
“Flora is feeling very special now.
Mary, a graduate, received her award earlier in the week, while student Ellie, who was meant to attend the reception, had to postpone her big day and will join the celebration later this year.
Amy, another graduate, cherished the day but took a moment to honor Caitlin, a former student who tragically passed away before completing her Gold Award.
Amy wore a butterfly badge as a tribute to Caitlin, symbolising her memory and presence.
Amy said: “I’ve had an amazing day, it is a little bit sad as Caitlin should be with us making us laugh but I know she will be looking down on us.”
Nadine Rasheed, mother of Yasmin Rasheed, applauded Steve Evans and his team for their unwavering dedication.
She said: “Steve Evans and his team absolutely deserve recognition for the dedication they have given to our children, enabling them to achieve these amazing accolades.
“Yasmins' journey from being a 1lb 3oz baby, born at 24-weeks gestation, to gaining her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award is phenomenal.
“She truly blossomed on the course.”
Steve Evans, the Derwen College DofE Co-ordinator, expressed immense pride in witnessing so many students and former students being recognised at Buckingham Palace.
He added: “To achieve a Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an impressive achievement for any young person.
“ I’ve had the privilege of supporting these remarkable students and graduates through their awards, pushing themselves out of their comfort zones to achieve challenges that they and their families didn’t imagine they could achieve.
“They are all legends.”
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