Skegness Grammar School given donation for Duke of Edinburgh scheme

Students taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Skegness Grammar School have benefitted from a donation to purchase crucial equipment, made by the St Clement’s Freemasons Lodge. More than half a million students across the country are currently taking part in the popular outdoor adventure scheme, learning skills such as teamwork, map reading, camp building and resilience. 

At a recent ceremony, Richard Hall, himself a former SGS student, presented the school with a cheque for £500 to support pupils on the Duke of Edinburgh programme. The school, part of the David Ross Education Trust, plans to use the donation to buy tracking devices for improving the efficiency and safety of pupils taking the bronze, silver and gold awards. This will allow the students to plan their routes through more remote areas and students will have greater freedom to shape their Duke of Edinburgh experience.

Noah, a current silver Duke of Edinburgh student said:

“We would like to say ‘thank you’ to the Freemasons for allowing us improved opportunities. We are now able to experience new landscapes and use better equipment to ensure our safety when doing so. It is important to be in remote areas because it encourages us to use our navigation, communication, and survival skills.”

Another Duke of Edinburgh student, Ellie, said: “Having trackers will give all of us peace of mind as it means even if we stray off the path our teachers will always be able to find us regardless of the conditions and location so they can refocus our navigational decisions.”

Although teachers cannot help students during their practical expedition, these trackers will mean that DofE leaders can make sure students are safe. Dilys Lloyd, Duke of Edinburgh Manager at SGS, expressed her gratitude to the Freemasons for providing funds for enrichment, meaning more students will get to experience and explore the countryside.

Lorraine Walker, Head of School at SGS said: 

“The Duke of Edinburgh scheme has a large uptake and has developed students' self belief, resilience, and recognition of the importance of giving back to our community. We look forward to welcoming Mr Hall back into SGS to present the students with their final awards.”

Students who are currently taking part in bronze, silver or gold programmes will benefit from these trackers as they undertake their expeditions from now on.