Stamford School Celebrates Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Success

Stamford School was proud to celebrate the achievement of both Bronze and Silver The Duke of Edinburgh's Award recipients this week, recognising the sustained effort and resilience shown by students across Year 10 and Year 12.

The Award is deliberately rigorous. At every level it demands consistent commitment across volunteering, physical activity, skills development and expedition. Bronze establishes the foundations: self-discipline, time management and the ability to work collaboratively in unfamiliar environments. Silver builds on this, requiring greater independence, leadership and endurance.

Completion at either level is not incidental. It reflects young people who have chosen to push beyond comfort, manage setbacks and take responsibility for their own progress. These are not abstract virtues. They are habits formed through practical challenge: navigating terrain in poor weather, balancing commitments over months, and serving others without recognition.

Our guest speaker, Dylan Dronfield, Old Stamfordian (OS 93) and Senior Editor at Sky News, addressed students and families, reflecting on the long-term value of resilience and integrity. His message was clear: character compounds. The discipline required at 14 or 16 becomes the professional credibility relied upon later.

We extend our sincere thanks to Mr Smith and the entire DofE team for their leadership and meticulous organisation. Delivering the Award at scale requires careful planning, safeguarding oversight and sustained mentorship. Their work ensures that challenge is matched with support and that standards remain high.

These achievements represent more than certificates. They evidence perseverance, service and the confidence to thrive when circumstances are demanding. That remains central to a Stamford education.