It was a day of extraordinary contrasts for staff at All Saints Academy Plymouth (ASAP) last month as they went from royal gardens to rugged coastlines in the name of student development.

Headteacher Scott Simpson-Horne and Duke of Edinburgh Manager Maya Zographides began the day in formal attire at Buckingham Palace, representing the school at a prestigious celebration hosted by His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. The event recognised the achievements of 8,000 young people who completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards and transformed the iconic gardens into a festival-style celebration with inspirational speakers, bunting, and lawn games.

But the day didn’t end in London. Just hours later, Ms Zographides swapped her heels for hiking boots and travelled straight to St Germans, where she met a group of Year 10 and 11 students ready to embark on their Silver DofE practice expedition.

The students navigated the trails of Portwrinkle, Seaton, and Mount Edgcumbe, using OS maps, compasses, and teamwork to complete their journey. From pitching tents to preparing hot meals, the expedition wasn’t just about adventure, it was about building resilience, independence, and lifelong memories.

The weekend also saw Bronze DofE students take on their own adventure, camping overnight and hiking through Cadover as part of their preparation journey.

The school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, wants to give special thanks to the team of dedicated DofE adult helpers who made the experience possible,  Joshua Mellors, Molly Gardner, Tom Cooper, Brandon Wheeler, Cameron Giles, Billy Hampson, and Herbie Owen.

Lacey Tombs, Acting Headteacher at All Saints Academy Plymouth said:

“The DofE award is about so much more than the finish line. Our students support one another, build confidence, and overcome personal challenges. Watching their growth, connection and progress has been truly inspiring.”

Maya Zographides, Duke of Edinburgh Manager at All Saints Academy Plymouth said: 

“I am so incredibly proud of these students. They’ve embraced every challenge and are emerging as inspiring role models in our community. Above all, they’ve embodied our school values of Legacy, Bravery, and Love.”