Greater Essex County District School Board

On June 6, 2025, the Greater Essex County District School Board presented three students with the Duke of Edinburgh International Award for the first time.

“The Duke of Edinburgh awards aren’t like other certificates – they’re in a class of their own.” says Vicki Houston, an educator with GECDSB who spearheaded the project.

“They validate the activities that many students are already doing—working out, helping in their community, learning new skills—and it brings them all together in a way that motivates them with purpose and builds confidence.”

The board recognized three Bronze award winners for the 2024-25 school year.

When the opportunity arose to partner with Award Canada to bring the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award to local secondary schools, staff at the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) were excited to offer students the chance to achieve something special.

Launched by His Royal Highness the late Prince Phillip in 1956, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a globally recognized program that challenges young people to develop skills, engage in physical activity, volunteer in their communities, and embark on adventurous journeys. Open to youth aged 14 to 24, the award provides a framework for personal growth and achievement that goes far beyond the traditional curriculum.

Making Achievement Visible, One Milestone at a Time

After a conversation between board staff and Award Canada, Houston mapped out a plan to bring the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to every school in the GECDSB, starting with early implementation during the 2024–25 school year.

Students participating in the program can choose to pursue one of three award levels—bronze, silver, or gold—depending on how much time and effort they want to dedicate. Each level challenges students to complete goals in four key areas: community service, personal skills, physical activity, and adventure.

The program aligns naturally with many of the board’s existing opportunities, including the Board’s unique Specialist High Skills Major and experiential learning programs.

Houston notes that there are plans to celebrate students who complete the program starting at this year’s graduation ceremonies, creating a new tradition of public recognition for students who’ve gone the extra mile with this achievement.

Results: Early Signs of Excitement and Impact

Although still in its early days, the program is already making an impression. Students are eager to get involved—and some are even changing their course selections to make sure they qualify.

“One of our senior students was struggling to see the value of English class,” Houston recalls. “But when they found out that staying enrolled was required for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, they changed their mind. They said they could finally see how it all fits together—how the pieces of their high school experience are building toward something bigger.”

Educators are also enthusiastic about the program’s flexibility and inclusivity. Because the award recognizes a wide range of student interests and efforts, it empowers students from all backgrounds and learning styles to succeed on their own terms.

With the first group of participants now engaged, GECDSB will continue to track student involvement and impact in the months ahead. The board also plans to expand opportunities to meet the requirements of the award and ensure that the program becomes a lasting part of the student experience.

“We’re just getting started,” says Houston. “But the early response tells us we’re on the right path.”