Prestigious Award To Count As High School Credit

High school students in Nova Scotia who receive the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh's Award can now receive a credit toward graduation, Education Minister Jamie Muir announced today, Oct. 29.

"We're pleased to formally recognize and support this excellent program and the students who have worked so hard to achieve the award," Mr. Muir said at the 2004 presentation ceremony for award winners in the province. "We're working with community partners to recognize learning and achievement outside the classroom and this award program is a great example. It enhances the public school curriculum and offers students a valuable leadership opportunity. Students are involved in activities that will make them better students and better Nova Scotians."

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is open to young people between the ages of 14 and 25. Participation is voluntary and participants must meet established criteria in four areas: volunteer community service, development of a hobby or skill, participation in physical fitness activities and camping expeditions.

"This program recognizes young people who have achieved a set standard in community service and self-improvement," said Bonnie Baltzer, Nova Scotia executive director, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award. "It challenges youth to get involved in activities that lead to personal growth, development and achievement."

There are three award levels -- bronze, silver and gold. Students who successfully complete the bronze award are eligible to receive a personal development credit called Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award 10. Students who achieve a silver award are eligible for a personal development credit called Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award 11, and gold award recipients will be eligible for a Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award 12 personal development credit.

Students currently enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Program can apply for credit beginning this school year. To receive a credit toward graduation, they have to provide their school principal or guidance counsellor with their final assessment and documentation.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award was introduced in Canada in 1963 and began in Nova Scotia in 1972. As of 2004, the program operates in more than 110 countries and nearly four million young people have been involved. Lt.-Gov. Myra Freeman recognized 17 silver and gold award recipients at today's presentation ceremony.