College is now licensed centre of the Duke of Edinburgh Award

Walsall College has become a Licensed Centre of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, providing its Public Services students with the opportunity to develop skills that are transferable to a range of jobs within the public sector.

The College has been selected to maintain the charity’s principals and standards and is authorised to grant Awards on behalf of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh.

By delivering the award, Walsall College will be one of two colleges in the West Midlands that will be offering the scheme.

For the past seven decades, The Duke of Edinburgh Award has inspired and transformed the lives of millions of young people. From volunteering opportunities to expeditions, achieving the award is a remarkable accomplishment that is valued by many employers and Universities.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award forms part of Walsall College’s Public Services curriculum, giving students the opportunity to develop the resilience, confidence and leaderships skills needed in a range of careers within Public Services.

Since the College gained the license, Level 1 and 2 Public Service students have been working towards their Bronze Award, which includes a six to 12 month period of skills development, volunteering, physical inclusion and a two day camping expedition.

Adam Comery, Curriculum Manager for Public Services at Walsall College, said: “We’re delighted to become a Licensed Centre for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. The award promotes a wide range of skills that are aligned with those found in all public service roles.

All public services require young recruits to have knowledge, understanding, skills and the attitude and properly learned behaviours, before they are selected. We feel that the Duke of Edinburgh Award will introduce students to environments and activities. It will test their ability and aptitude for dealing with new challenges, as well as enhancing skills that are transferable into their chosen career and beyond.”

For more information about enrolling on a course at Walsall College, please call 01922 657000.