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Emilie achieves D of E Gold Award during lockdown!

A great achievement has been accomplished by Year 13 student Emilie Ratcliffe who has successfully completed her Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award during lockdown! Having previously completed her bronze award, Emilie was eligible to become a direct entrant to the Gold Award scheme, which requires longer timescales to achieve each category. Emilie completed 12 months volunteering at her church cafe in Chalfont St Peter for the volunteering section and completed 18 months of swimming training as part of the physical section of the scheme.  Emilie spent six months learning to drive as part of the skill section, which resulted in her passing her driving test on the first attempt. Whilst in Year 12, Emilie completed her practice expedition with fellow students in the Peak district, walking over the dark peak from Hathersage to Edale, and returning via Kinder Scout. This was followed by her successfully completing her qualifying expedition in the Brecon Beacons. Emilie completed the final residential section during a week-long residential placement at a respite centre in Southampton for disabled people and their carers.

Duke of Edinburgh Manager Mrs Kirby is delighted to report that Emilie has now received confirmation that her completion of the award has been approved and that she will receive her much deserved Gold award badge imminently.

Well done Emilie! Your hard work is inspirational and shows the diverse skills that are acquired as a participant in this fantastic scheme – and which also benefit so many other people as a result of your efforts! A well-deserved achievement! (If you would like to find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme please follow the link below. Also please find further information about 'Revitalise'- the respite charity at which Emilie completed her residential section).

https://www.dofe.org/do/

https://revitalise.org.uk/

 

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19th December

Charities Week 2025

The halls of St Clement Danes School have been buzzing with holiday cheer this week as the annual Charities Week is officially in full swing. As the Autumn Term draws to a close, pupils and staff have united to raise vital funds for three incredible causes: Endometriosis UK, Spread a Smile, and Herts Young Homeless. The school is alive with the spirit of giving, driven by a jam packed ‘Advent’ schedule designed to get everyone involved in the fundraising efforts. This year’s itinerary has been filled with exciting activities, ranging from pupil led lessons and a "Mystery Bucket" challenge to the competitive excitement of the "Elf Auction" and various competitions. Pupils have also enjoyed the classic "Sponge the Teacher" event and a visit to Santa’s Grotto, ensuring the festive atmosphere is matched only by the community’s generosity. Beyond the classroom activities, pupils have been sharing the festive spirit with the wider community. On 18th December, the SCD Senior Choir paid a special visit to Chorleywood Manor Care Home. The residents were treated to a beautiful selection of Christmas carols, featuring performances by members of the Chamber Choir, Evensong Choir, and the Barbershop Choir. Year 12 pupils Immy and Chrissie noted that "it was a very joyful occasion and it was lovely to see the residents joining in and looking so happy." The success of such a busy week relies heavily on pupil leadership, and the school extends a massive vote of thanks to Year 13 for their incredible hard work and dedication. Their enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this week's fundraising efforts. The week is set to conclude on Friday with the Grand Finale: the highly anticipated Sixth Form Revue, promising a spectacular end to a week of community, charity and celebration.