With not just one but three achievements, Rossmoyne Senior High School is celebrating with their Year 12 students about their participation at the International Duke of Edinburgh awards this year.
After 60 years the Duke of Edinburgh awards continue to recognise the skills, health, community service and sense of adventure of youth from 14-24 years old.
This year Rossmoyne has three Year 12 students who achieved their gold award, Zac Coleman, Archie Atkinson and Er-Tian Sim.
Duke of Edinburgh award leader and Rossmoyne Senior High School teacher Dane Williams said the awards acknowledged the student’s hidden talents.
“It’s been fantastic to see so many students aspiring to push themselves further in doing so many find hidden passions and motivations,” he said.
Part of the Rossmoyne Student Council and award leader, Mr Dane Williams spoke to the students about becoming involved in the Duke of Edinburgh program as a way of developing leadership skills.
The award is comprised of three levels each progressively more challenging and participants need to go through.
Zac Coleman completed his silver award before aiming to achieve the gold award. Participants are also required to complete four sections at each level, including voluntary service, physical recreation,skills and adventurous journey.
“The physical and service skills were not difficult to complete as I am actively involved in surf lifesaving at both a competitive level and by volunteering as a member of a beach patrol and also as a sports official,” he said.
“It was especially gratifying as the final component I completed was my adventurous journey, trekking the Kokoda Trail.
“It was a sense of accomplishment as it is a full year’s commitment.
“Walking into the early morning mist of Kokoda village after 10 gruelling days on the trail, it was doubly satisfying knowing that I had not only experienced an important part of our military history but had also completed my gold Duke of Edinburgh award.”
Although Zac’s journey doesn’t end here as he has already accepted an offer from The Australian National University to study international relations and political science next year.
His aim for the future is to work in foreign affairs as a diplomat for Australia.
