Former students achieve Gold as the next generation follows in their wake

The Joint Award family at Shimna, combining the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Gaisce President’s Award, proudly celebrates our five newest Gold Award holders.

In May, we were thrilled to hear that Maddy Boyle and Kate Lynas (Class of 2020) were honoured at Buckingham Palace for their incredible achievements. Then, on Monday 23rd June, Kirsten McKeown, James Cockfield (both class of 2019), and Chris Barbour (class of 2023) joined the Gold ranks at Hillsborough Castle. A huge congratulations to all. It’s fantastic to see all your hard work pay off.

The next generation has now completed Gold Award expedition training. Eight Sixth Form students - Ciara Boyle, Isabella Cross, Caiti Gorman, Eabha Hallissey, Jana McCurdy Pobloth, Bradden Mooney, Janneke Vos and Ellen Watson - spent two days

On Friday, the group undertook a half-day  training session in Donard Forest, up past the quarry and to the top of Millstone, returning via Drinneevar Quarry. On Monday, they walked from Meelmore Lodge to Newcastle via Brandy Pad.

Well done to all concerned.