As the 2024-25 Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition season draws to a close, we are delighted to congratulate all 240 participants who have successfully completed their qualifying expeditions with outdoor expedition provider Hillgoers.

• 133 Bronze
• 71 Silver 
• 36 Gold

One of our Gold participants, Adi (S5), shared: “My Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition was three nights and four days of tough uphill walking over challenging terrain in the Cairngorms; camping surrounded by breathtaking views and eating meals that never quite tasted like home. The expedition was physically demanding, yet our group did a great job of pushing through and still having fun. Now that I’ve completed it, I feel proud of this achievement, yet also relieved that it's over! 

“The experience helped me develop real resilience, teamwork, and determination to succeed. Alongside this, I also volunteered for a year at Woodlands Care Home, and developed skills in hockey and guitar. I have learned the importance of kindness and supporting others in our community, skills I know will stay with me long after DofE.”

Mrs McAvinue, Duke of Edinburgh Awards Manager, added: “Your commitment, resilience, and teamwork have truly paid off.”

Robert Gordon’s College is one of the largest independent school centres in Scotland for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, where pupils choose to participate as part of a strong tradition of volunteering, outdoor expeditions, and skills development.