Duke of Edinburgh's Award:

We are pleased to announce that our senior students will now have the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. This is an International Award that equips young people with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and the world. To date almost 6 million young people from over 120 countries have participated in this programme.

 

The Award combines service, adventure and new skills for students 14 years and older. Our Grade 9 and 10 students will have the chance to show personal initiative and independence.

 

To achieve the Award the students must set goals in 4 programme areas:

1. Community Service - providing a minimum of 15 hours (for the Bronze level) volunteer service above and beyond the 40 hours required by the Ministry of Education
2. Personal Skills Development - The students must develop a personal interest, social or practical skill. They have to apply themselves to this skill for a minimum of 6 months. Some examples are: music, computers, graphic arts, life skills, model building etc. (May not be a physical activity)
3. Physical Fitness - The student must take part in at least 30 hours of physical activities (over a 6 month period) above and beyond Venta's daily phys ed programme. (For example, they may join a team activity or learn a new sport.)
4. Adventurous Journey - The students will participate in a wilderness or adventure experience with a minimum of 2 days out , including one night of camping and 6 hours of activity a day. This year the students are going on a 4 day canoeing trip down the Madawaska river .

The introduction of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a great addition to the Venta Senior Programme. Completion of either the Bronze, Silver or Gold Award is well regarded by both universities and employers.