Duke of Edinburgh Award
The Duke of Edinburgh Award continues to be a cornerstone of student life at Thomas Hassall, empowering students to grow in resilience, leadership, and service. This year, our Bronze, Silver, and Gold participants have embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and heart.
Bronze Award
Bronze students kicked off their journey with a practice hike in Mt Ku-ring-gai National Park, where they enjoyed campfire camaraderie and learned essential expedition skills like navigation and campcraft. Their qualifying hike in Royal National Park was a true highlight, featuring ocean views, sightings of whales and dolphins, and swimming at Bonnie Vale. Students showed great persistence, especially when hiking through mud on the second day, and reflected on the value of teamwork, pacing, and perseverance.
Silver Award
Silver students completed their practice hike in Glenbrook, Blue Mountains National Park, demonstrating endurance on a challenging trail. They enjoyed games at camp, music around the fire, and stunning lookouts over the Nepean River. A thrilling whitewater adventure at Penrith Whitewater Stadium capped off the experience. Their qualifying hike in Bouddi National Park is just around the corner, and excitement is building.
Gold Award
Our 35 Gold students are eagerly preparing for their expedition to New Zealand from 4–15 December, which will include two spectacular four-day hikes through breathtaking landscapes. These hikes will take students through a mix of alpine ridgelines, forested valleys, and remote wilderness, offering a varied environment to what most students have been exposed to in Australia. Students preparation is ramping up, covering expedition skills, fitness training, and route planning, all of which build confidence and camaraderie ahead of the journey.
In July, 22 Thomas Hassall alumni were honoured at Government House with their Gold Awards, a proud moment for our community. Another ceremony is scheduled for November, where more students will be recognised for their outstanding achievements. These ceremonies are a testament to the long-term commitment and personal growth that the Gold level represents.
Service and Skill in Action
A dedicated group of students has faithfully attended Sparkle Club, contributing to the school community by tidying up campus grounds, managing recycling and assisting with lunch orders. This year, our service opportunities expanded to include recycling for charity, raising an impressive amount for a worthy cause, over $2000 so far.
Beyond Sparkle Club, students have been diligently logging a wide variety of activities for their Duke of Ed requirements. From chess and volleyball to learning Arabic, kickboxing, serving in church kids ministry, and preparing food packages for the homeless, the breadth of commitment is inspiring. Many students report a deep sense of satisfaction upon completing a level, proof of the program’s impact on personal growth.
Our Thanks
None of this would be possible without the tireless work of our Duke of Ed staff team. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr Catto, Mr Graham, and Mrs Gilchrist for their outstanding leadership and commitment to facilitating the program. We also want to acknowledge all the staff who regularly attend hikes, often at personal cost, to support our students. Your dedication makes this program possible, and we are deeply grateful.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award continues to shape confident, compassionate and capable young people at Thomas Hassall. We’re proud of every student and staff member involved, and we look forward to the adventures ahead.
Mr Luke Robinson
Director of Co-curricular
