Students, staff and guests came together on Friday 22nd May for the annual Duke of Edinburgh Garden Party, celebrating the achievements of Aquinas students involved in the award programme.
The event was particularly special this year as it followed the attendance of Aquinas students at the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s 70th Anniversary Celebration at Buckingham Palace. The national event brought together young people from across the country to celebrate seven decades of the award and recognise the impact it continues to have on generations of participants.
The Garden Party provided an opportunity to reflect on another successful year of D of E at Aquinas, recognising the hard work, commitment and achievements of students across all award levels. Participants, staff and supporters enjoyed an afternoon of awards, refreshments and celebration, acknowledging the many ways students have challenged themselves and contributed to their communities.
Aquinas continues to be immensely proud of its Duke of Edinburgh provision and the opportunities it offers students to develop resilience, independence, leadership and teamwork. Between 1st April 2025 and 31st March 2026, Aquinas students completed an impressive 1,573 hours of volunteering, creating an estimated social value of £11,875 within local communities.




























































