Network Ryde Youth Service Honours Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Achievers

In an inspiring evening of celebration, Network Ryde Youth Service proudly recognised the achievements of 16 young people who have successfully completed their Bronze, Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Awards.

The award ceremony was held at Network Ryde’s new youth centre (formerly St. Thomas’ Church) on Thursday December 12, and was
attended by proud parents, family, friends of Network Ryde and Ryde Town Council Councillors.

Graham Biss, the Isle of Wight’s High Sheriff presented the awards, and Richard May, Ryde’s Mayor, spoke enthusiastically at the event.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an incredibly important part of Network Ryde’s youth provision, and the team are proud of each and every one of the young people who embark on this journey with them.

The Award equips young people with lifelong skills, self-confidence, and a sense of purpose.

Over the past year, participants have undertaken skills and physical sections and contributed many hours of volunteering to local initiatives, making a meaningful difference to the community.

Bex Swan, Network Ryde’s Youth Work Manager, said:

“We are so proud of all of our young people for completing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards at Network Ryde.

"As a team, we work hard to provide an inclusive youth service, and love the time we spend, out on expeditions, and supporting our young people on their DofE journey.

"We send huge congratulations to all of our 2024 achievers and look forward to this year’s award!”

Bronze Awards were presented to:
Daisy Lovell, Anthony Jordan-Priest, Lydia Eastwood, Lexi Watt, Fraser Hodges, Freya Johnson, James Pushparajah, Amelie Lale, Myles Bradley, Eve Rossall-Hogan, Poppy Holliday, Owen Hodges, Holly Clark, Maisie Williams, Ry Cooper-Howarth, Harmony France.

Network Ryde are now in the process of organising their DofE groups for 2025, and will be holding two open afternoons for young people and their families to find out more:

DofE Bronze Information Afternoon: Thursday 23rd (3.30-5.30pm)
DofE Silver Information Afternoon: Thursday 30th (3.30-5.30pm)

Please note, young people must be in Year 9 at Secondary School (or Home Ed equivalent) to start their Bronze Award.