Rickmansworth School Welcomes Lord-Lieutenant Of Hertfordshire To Celebrate Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award Success

Rickmansworth School was honoured to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, the official representative of His Majesty The King, on Thursday 26 March to present Duke of Edinburgh’s Award certificates to students in Years 10 and 11.

The visit marked a special occasion for the School community, as students were formally recognised for their commitment, perseverance and achievement in completing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Bronze and Silver level.

The Lord Lieutenant also met with a wider group of students, presenting certificates recognising a range of achievements, including sport, music and house contributions. He addressed all students about the importance of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the valuable life skills and experiences it offers in supporting their future journeys.

Rickmansworth School has a long-standing tradition of delivering the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and currently supports approximately 250 students across Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. The programme continues to play a significant role in the School’s wider provision, offering students the opportunity to develop key life skills beyond the classroom.

Through volunteering, physical activity, skills development and expedition, students build confidence, independence and resilience. These experiences reflect the School’s core values, encouraging students to be responsible, develop positive relationships and approach challenges with resourcefulness and reflection. The expedition element in particular requires teamwork, problem-solving and determination, often in challenging conditions, making the achievement all the more rewarding.

One Year 10 student said, “I am really proud to have achieved my Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The expedition in particular was challenging but enjoyable, and it was a special moment to receive my certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant.”

A Year 11 student said: “I am really pleased to have completed my Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. It has helped me build confidence and resilience, and I am looking forward to taking on Gold in the future.”

Headteacher, Matt Fletcher said, “It was a real honour to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE CStJ, to Rickmansworth School to celebrate the achievements of our students. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award demands commitment, resilience and a willingness to step beyond one’s comfort zone, and we are incredibly proud of everything our students have accomplished.

I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to our staff, who give their time so generously to support students throughout their Duke of Edinburgh journey, often going above and beyond in all conditions. Their dedication, alongside the determination and positive spirit of our students, is what makes experiences like this so meaningful and successful.”

The school remains committed to supporting students in accessing a broad range of opportunities that enrich their education and help prepare them for the future.