The Award
Founded in 1956 by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award has inspired generations of young people to challenge themselves, support their communities and develop skills for life. It is an internationally recognised programme that celebrates personal achievement, commitment and growth.
At Morna International College, the Award is an important part of our commitment to education beyond the classroom. Students begin the Bronze Award in Year 10, with opportunities to progress to Silver and Gold as they move through the school. Through volunteering, physical activity, learning a skill and completing an adventurous journey, each participant sets personal goals, discovers new strengths and learns what they can achieve through sustained effort.
The value of the Award extends well beyond the certificate. Taking responsibility, overcoming difficulties and contributing to others helps students build independence, resilience and confidence. It also develops teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills that they can carry into university, employment and everyday life.
For university applications, personal statements and CVs, the Award provides concrete evidence of these qualities. Students can draw on meaningful experiences to demonstrate their initiative, dedication and willingness to embrace challenges. By offering the full journey from Bronze to Gold, Morna gives students the opportunity to leave school with a recognised achievement and valuable preparation for their future.
The Adventurous Journey
The adventurous journey offers students an exciting opportunity to travel, explore the outdoors and put their teamwork into practice. Preparation begins here in Ibiza, with practice walks on the island where students build their confidence and learn essential expedition skills, including first aid, map reading and using a compass. This year, the school has purchased new compasses to support this practical learning.
Students also learn to plan routes, organise equipment and manage the everyday demands of an expedition. These local walks allow them to practise working as a team and prepare for their journey away from home.
In recent years, our Bronze and Silver participants have travelled to the New Forest in the UK, where they navigate woodland routes, camp outdoors and work together to complete their expeditions. Along the way, they share responsibilities, solve problems and support one another, gaining confidence in their ability to overcome challenges.
Travelling away from home and taking responsibility within a team encourages students to become more independent. The experience gives them time to connect with nature and one another, creating lasting friendships and memories.
Our Gold participants have undertaken their expedition in the Brecon Beacons, where a more demanding journey builds on these skills. Each expedition gives students the satisfaction of completing a challenge through their own preparation, perseverance and teamwork.
The Gold Award
Introduced at Morna two years ago, the Gold Award gives students the opportunity to complete the highest level of the programme. Its addition means that students can progress through all three levels during their time at the school, taking on greater challenges and demonstrating sustained dedication.
Alongside volunteering, physical activity, skills and the adventurous journey, Gold participants complete a residential experience. Our students have travelled to The Gambia with the Lisa Kent Trust, volunteering with local children, supporting learning activities and spending time with local families.
The residential offers a valuable opportunity to experience another culture, learn from others and build connections beyond the school community. Through games, shared stories and everyday experiences, students formed meaningful friendships with the people who welcomed them. Participants described returning with a broader perspective, greater gratitude and a deeper appreciation of human connection.
Completing Gold is an achievement students can proudly highlight in university and employment applications. It demonstrates their ability to sustain a commitment, take responsibility and work with others in unfamiliar situations.
Last year, four Morna students took part in the Gold Award, and two students are working towards it this year. We are proud to celebrate their dedication, including the achievement of Carlie Torres Harwood, the first student in the school's history to complete Bronze, Silver and Gold. Their journeys reflect the ambition, compassion and determination we encourage in every student.
