By Victoria Brenan

Last updated at 18:57, Saturday, 24 March 2012

An 18-year-old student has gone for gold – and was given it by the Duke of Edinburgh himself.

Chloe Dixon

Chloe Dixon, a former Austin Friars St Monica’s School pupil, was one of 100 young people from across the north to secure a Gold Duke of Edinburgh award.

She travelled to London to receive her certificate from the Duke at a ceremony in St James’ Palace.

Chloe took part in several overnight expeditions, wild camping, and completed a course in windsurfing and sailing.

She also volunteered with Action for the Blind where she helped blind and visually impaired children take part in sports.

She said the scheme had boosted her self confidence and helped her make decisions about her life.

“Receiving my award from The Duke of Edinburgh was very exciting and a privilege,” she said.

“We enjoyed chatting about my experience and I found he had a witty sense of humour.”

Brian Hinvest, a Duke of Edinburgh trainer at the school for more than 10 years, said he was thrilled for her.

“The Gold Award indicates that a young person has demonstrated commitment, teamwork and self-organisational skills to achieve the award,” he said.

“The expeditions that I led, and which Chloe took part in, took the participants well out of their comfort zone and tested their skills in being able to cope with whatever confronts them. I am delighted for Chloe. She demonstrated real commitment to the programme and it is rewarding as a trainer to see her being presented with her award by the Duke.”

Chloe is now studying childhood studies and health in contemporary society at the University of Northumbria.

First published at 08:59, Saturday, 24 March 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk