This group of 60 Participants are aged 14-15 and receive a number of qualifications through their involvement in the Links to Learning Program – The Duke of Ed is just one of these aspects including First Aid, Retail and Self Defence. Michael says “The Links to Learning program combined with The Duke of Ed looks at young people at the other end of the spectrum and gives people the chance to shine in areas other than the academic.”
Through Links to Learning and the work of Michael and the team, including Rebecca Collins and Chalha Maksour, The Duke of Ed has been introduced to a number of multicultural groups in the Illawarra area. “Over the past five years, a number of new Participants have come to the program knowing all about The Duke of Ed and are keen to complete it.”
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Michael and the Links to Learning team use The Duke of Ed to teach young people about commitment. Michael often tells the young participants “what you start, you need to finish” and that includes all components of The Duke of Ed program.
Participation in The Duke of Ed for the young people involved has created a sense of youth empowerment and allowed them to use their voices. “Our young people complete the program with a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves that they may have not experienced before. We have also found that The Duke of Ed has been an incredibly effective way to build relationships,” said Michael.
As a Coordinator, Michael and the Links to Learning team have helped Award Participants achieve a sense of empowerment. “The entire team works closely with the Participants to encourage and support their journey. As with any challenge, there are moments of doubt. The support from the team and their confidence in the young people involved is integral to the commitment and completion of the program.”.jpg)
Michael has experienced a number of highlights through Coordinating The Award. “Last year, the final stages of a qualifying Adventurous Journey was a very long climb. The weather was warm, and the participants were exhausted. I was in awe as I watched young people carry others’ packs to give them time to recover and assist them up the final stages of the climb. The bond forged on that day between the young people was inspiring and moving. To me – this is worth more than the Award itself.”
Through the involvement in the program, Michael has seen a number of Participants transform their lives and their attitudes. A young girl who was previously in trouble made a solid commitment to the Links to Learning program and her Duke of Ed. “We began to notice a change,” says Michael. “Her attitude was far more positive and she began throwing herself into the activities. The biggest surprise was when she completed the final Duke of Ed qualifying journey. This young girl did not complain at all, assisted others with their packs and even led the walk for some stages. Most notably this young person was extremely proud of herself for having completed the trek and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
