A total of 27 young people have been recognised for their outstanding achievements in completing Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Awards through Network Ryde Youth Service.
The celebratory ceremony took place at the Network Ryde youth centre on Thursday 27th November, with friends, family members, and councillors in attendance.
The awards were presented by Councillor Ian Dore, Chair of the Isle of Wight Council, who praised the young people for their dedication and commitment. Also speaking at the event were Bex Swan, Youth Work Manager at Network Ryde, and John Grimes, the group’s DofE Youth Worker. Both highlighted the positive impact of the programme on young people’s wellbeing.
Councillor Ian Dore has said:
“I was very proud to support the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards this year, and it was an honour to present certificates to such outstanding young people. As I watched each participant come forward, I felt genuine admiration for their resilience, determination, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones.
“Their achievements are a powerful reminder of the strength and potential that lie within our community’s young people. Supporting the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards means supporting our future, and I couldn’t be more inspired by what these young people have accomplished. Hats, coats and gloves off to one and all!”
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a core part of Network Ryde’s youth provision, helping young people gain skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Over the past year, participants have completed physical challenges, developed new skills, and volunteered many hours to community projects.
Bex Swan, Network Ryde’s Youth Work Manager, has said:
“We are delighted to recognise all our young people who have completed their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards at Network Ryde. DofE is a vital element of our inclusive youth service, and our team greatly value the time spent on expeditions, and supporting our young people.
“A memorable highlight for us this year was definitely camping at Kingston Smallholding and feeding the goats! Congratulations to all of our 2025 achievers – we look forward to next year’s award!”
Those achieving Silver Awards included: Daisy Lovell, Amelie Lale, Lewis Dollery, Poppy Holliday and Harmony France.
Bronze Award achievers were: James Burke, Tom Burke, Kole Bates, Jake Bates, Esme Moran, Amber Moran, Mia Moran, Samuel Robinson, John Pushparajah, Mason Dowling, George Bowerman, Melanie Henry, Rachel Savill, Charlie Farr, Janaya Avery, Eva Couzens, Mary Couzens, May McCathie, Alfie Saker and Seth Trevallion.
Network Ryde are now preparing their DofE groups for 2026. Two open information afternoons will be held for young people and families interested in joining:
- Bronze Information Afternoon: Thursday 22nd January (15:30-17:30)
- Silver Information Afternoon: Thursday 29th January (15:30-17:30)
Young people must be in Year 9 at Secondary School – or the Home Education equivalent – to begin the Bronze Award.
