A JOURNEY WITH MANY
NICHOLAS CHAN ’ S FIVE-YEAR ROUTE TO A
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD
LIFE LESSONS
NICHOLAS CHAN ( SECOND FROM RIGHT ) AT THE YEAR 10 OLP BLUFF HIKE , A COMPONENT FOR THE ADVENTURE SECTION OF THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD
During my time at Scotch , I wanted to broaden my horizons and learn the skills of life that are usually taught beyond the classroom . It was evident that the Duke of Edinburgh Award was a perfect opportunity to acquire these life skills that could develop my character into an all-rounded individual .
Beginning at bronze in Year 8 and progressing to the silver and gold levels until Year 12 , the award has provided a colourful and fulfilling experience that is an indelible foundation of my moral character .
In my journey , I immersed myself in a vast range of activities to help achieve my Duke of Edinburgh Award . My paths consisted of tennis and basketball , piano and singing , volunteering positions at St Vincent de Paul Society ( Vinnies ) and the City of Boroondara ’ s Camberwell Library , as well as numerous expedition trips . All of these were required to fulfil the four components of the award across five years : physical recreation , skills , voluntary service , and adventurous journey .
I soon found that any participant undertaking the award would develop a sense of integrity and purpose for their work . As much of the award ’ s progress depended on my self-initiative , it was only natural that I motivated myself to make headway on achieving goals larger than personal success . This often came with honest scrutiny whether I was making my most honest efforts – an essential skill to have when reflecting upon life goals .
During this long journey , there were moments where it was no doubt easy to lose sight of the end goal . Balancing a healthy academic record , major sporting commitments outside of school as well as weekly volunteering service certainly posed a challenge that required motivation to persevere .
Despite periods of hardships , in the end this challenge inevitably fostered an appreciation within me for persistence , to transform hard work into passion , respect , and dedication for my award . Overall , the award provided me with a greater sense of community and respect for others . The personalised and flexible nature of the award allowed for my strengths to flourish , but also revealed areas where I needed improvement .
In the grand scheme , the Duke of Edinburgh Award was more than just an accolade that I was chasing , but a journey that taught many life lessons along the way . I encourage potential participants who are considering undertaking the award to embrace this wonderful challenge .
NICHOLAS CHAN – YEAR 12
www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 49