Six students from Camborne Science and International Academy headed to St James’s Palace in London to receive their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

“This was an amazing achievement and the culmination of 5 five years of work from Bronze to Silver to Gold," said Anthony Douglas, Duke of Edinburgh director at the school. “It is also the first time students from CSIA have been to this prestigious event so it was even more special.”

The students - Kate Powell, Olivia Haase, Jessica Bode, Ellie Burridge, Alex Rowe and Damon Thorne - are all now at university or on gap years and were very excited to be receiving their award from Prince Edward, The Duke of Wessex. Unable to attend but also achieving the Gold Award were Rowan Burgess and Isla Symons

"Most of the students met in Trafalgar Square on a beautiful sunny morning and after spending some time exploring, headed off for lunch,” said Mr Douglas. “The Royal Society was the setting for the official photographs and it was amazing to visit such a stunning and inspiring venue.”

Once inside St James’s Palace, the students were escorted to the Picture Gallery for their presentation.

“There were 100 students in each of three rooms receiving their awards and each room was to be addressed by the Prince and a celebrity guest," added Mr Douglas. “Much excitement ensued when Phillip Schofield entered our room to talk to the students. He was thrilled to have such a large Cornish cohort, originating from Crantock himself. Phillip talked to the students about what an amazing achievement it was to gain the Gold Award.”

The Duke of Wessex, was then shown into the room, the students stood and were presented in groups.

“He spent about five minutes talking to all of the students and asking questions about what they did on their award and where they went on their expeditions," said Mr Douglas. "He was very engaging and genuinely interested in their stories and adventures. It was a quite remarkable day and well worth the journey to share the experience. CSIA looks forward to making this trip again when the next cohort of students venture to London for this amazing event.”

Principal at CSIA, Ian Kenworthy, added: “We provide opportunities like the Duke of Edinburgh so students can have some fun, develop vital life skills, work as a team and broaden their horizons. It really sets the tone for a lifetime of achievement. We’re so pleased everyone had such a fantastic day.”