Students Generate Over £22,000 of Social Value Through Volunteering

Cowes Enterprise College is celebrating the incredible contribution made by its Duke of Edinburgh’s Award students after receiving its annual Social Value Certificate during Volunteers’ Week.

The certificate recognises the impact of volunteering completed by students as part of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, with an impressive 2990 hours of volunteering recorded across Bronze, Silver and Gold Award participants. These hours have generated an estimated social value of £22,573 for the local community.

With more than 100 students currently enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, Cowes Enterprise College students have made a significant difference through a wide range of volunteering activities throughout the year.

Students have supported local charities including Cats Protection, volunteered in charity shops, and spent time helping at the Alzheimer Café Daily Club in Cowes. Others have created and maintained community gardens, undertaken litter-picking and beach-cleaning projects, and supported local organisations such as Scout groups and children’s sports clubs.

A key element of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is that students independently identify volunteering opportunities and commit their time to making a positive contribution to causes that matter to them. The programme encourages young people to develop confidence, responsibility and a strong sense of community engagement.

The success of the programme is also supported by a dedicated team of Cowes Enterprise College staff members, who volunteer their own time to organise, lead and deliver the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Their commitment enables a large number of students to participate in the programme each year and benefit from the opportunities it provides.

Cowes Enterprise College Vice Principal, Vicky Wells, said:

“Achieving nearly 3000 hours of volunteering is an incredible accomplishment. We are immensely proud of our students for the positive impact they have made in the community and grateful to the staff who help make these opportunities possible.”

Adam Brown, Assistant Principal and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager, said:

“It has been inspiring to see the enthusiasm and commitment our students bring to their volunteering. The variety of volunteering undertaken by our students is incredible, and the impact they have made across the local community is something we are immensely proud of. They have truly embodied the values of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through their service, commitment and willingness to help others.”

As expedition season continues, with students recently completing Silver assessed expeditions and preparing for further challenges, the academy is delighted to celebrate not only their adventurous achievements but also the lasting difference they are making in the local community.

Cowes Enterprise College would like to congratulate all Duke of Edinburgh’s Award participants on their outstanding contribution and thank the community organisations who have supported them throughout the year.