As part of his intensive training for his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award, Lawn Manor Academy pupil, Luke Bevington, has been volunteering in his local community, helping the public get close to impressive sword, spear and archery demonstrations.
The DofE Award requires young people to complete four activities, based around the key themes of volunteering, physical, skills and expedition. Luke has been ticking off the expedition requirements for his badge through his time with Wiltshire Army Cadet Force, undertaking adventure training, hiking, cliff jumping and taking part in marches.
Most recently, he spent his weekend helping out at a medieval re-enactment event in Swindon, run by Black Cat Archery. Luke, who is in Year 11, helped the audience get close to sword fighting, shooting and archery, as well as spear and axe throwing. He also played a key role in the smooth running of the event by marshalling car parks, performing litter picks and directing the public, working solidly for eight hours a day to support stallholders such as the Borough Council, in attendance to provide help and advice for Swindon residents experiencing the cost-of-living crisis.
“Everyone who met Luke at the event commented on his dedication, enthusiasm and effort,” says Connect Teacher, Chris Fox of Lawn Manor Academy, “Local traders commented on his hard work and even gave him a little reward of an ice cream! Luke’s approach is representative of the school’s ethos; to be out and about in our local community, helping where we can.”
Luke’s next challenge is an expedition with his fellow cadets, as well as undertaking more archery practise to complete the physical requirements of the award. He hopes to have achieved his Bronze award by the end of the year.
As part of his role as a Senior Prefect at Lawn Manor Academy, Luke also volunteers his time to support open evenings and school tours, as well as being a role model to other students.
More than 321,000 young people began a DofE programme in 2021/22, the highest in the organisation’s 66-year history. It is estimated that over the course of a year, more than 2 million volunteering hours are devoted by young people to helping their local community.
