Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Celebration at Buckingham Palace

In May, those OVs and current King’s pupils that have achieved their Gold Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) award joined their guests, and King’s DofE Manager Simon Cuthbertson (Hon OV), in Buckingham Palace Garden to celebrate their incredible achievement. An invitation to a Gold Award Celebration is always a special occasion, but this year even more so as the charity celebrates its 70^th anniversary.

After the customary security checks at the gates to Buckingham Palace, guests were able to enjoy a stroll through the gardens before speeches led by HRH the Duke of Edinburgh. Unfortunately, this coincided with a torrential downpour, which brought back memories of some expeditions! Nonetheless, everyone was in celebratory mood and the King’s contingent managed to meet for a catch up.

In the photo, from the left: Joe Amos (K 13-20 and Old St Alban’s), Ben Amos (K 13-22 and Old St Alban’s), Kieran Balding (U6), Simon Cuthbertson, Josh Lavarack (S 18-25 and Old Hawfordian), Connor Yates (Cr 17-25 and Old St Alban’s), James Capell (Cr 18-25 and Old St Alban’s), and Rebecca Nosworthy (Ch 18-25).

OV Zach Mason (K 12-25 and Old St Alban’s) also attended the Friday celebration.

Simon Cuthbertson (Hon OV), Head of Geography and DofE Manager, added, “It was a huge pleasure to be part of the celebrations at Buckingham Palace and catch up with some of our award holders. Congratulations to everyone, including those who were unable to attend due to exams. This is an impressive achievement of which everyone should be immensely proud.”

Ruth Marvel OBE, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: “It’s an absolute privilege to be celebrating our amazing Gold Award holders in the Buckingham Palace Garden – who through their DofE, have shown extraordinary perseverance and resilience, and developed core skills for life.”

Overall, 15 OVs from the Year of 2025 achieved their Gold Award, along with a record 17 current Upper Sixth students.

It was a great way to celebrate a great achievement; like their expeditions, something they won’t forget.