STUDENTS from Treloar’s joined with fellow pupils, parents and staff from other schools to receive their Bronze and Silver Awards at the East Hampshire Duke of Edinburgh’s Award night.

The presentation event was held at the school, which is located in Holybourne.

Staff said there was a great turnout on the night, with 46 young people in total receiving awards.

The guest of honour was adventurer, mountaineer and expedition leader, David Love.

His keynote speech highlighted how taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award while he was at school inspired his love of exploring.

“The students at Treloar’s have certainly shown their passion for exploring new things,” a spokesman from the school commented.

“They had a memorable experience when out sailing in the Solent.

“The weather deteriorated rapidly and they successfully returned their boats to the harbour in challenging conditions.”

Simon Birch, interim chief executive at Treloar’s, praised those who took part.

“A huge congratulations to our fantastic students,” he said.

“We are so proud of your achievements.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the world’s leading youth achievement award, with more than 438,000 participants this year.

Treloar’s has “big ambitions” to “increase the scope of opportunities available to young people with disabilities”, as well as helping them to navigate the difficult path from education into independence and employment.

Schemes like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are encouraged at the school and college.