Calum Ross

 Calum has just completed his sixth year at Tain Royal Academy. As well as studying hard for his exams this remarkable young man has achieved a gold level for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. He tells his own story for us below.

I am Calum Ross a 6th Year pupil at Tain Royal Academy. I became interested in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme after hearing my mum's stories about when she did the awards and in 2006 the opportunity to participate in the scheme presented itself.

I couldn't wait to get started.

There are three levels of entry for this scheme each having at least four sections to complete in order to achieve the award. I entered the scheme at Bronze level aged 14 and completed 3 months of First aid as my Service , 3 months of cycling and 6 months of playing my  bagpipes. For the Silver Award I completed 6 months each of being a young leader with the Beavers young scout unit in Golspie and of playing my bagpipes and 3 months of badminton an expedition was also completed at Bronze and Silver. In order to complete my Gold Award I continued my attachment with the local Beavers Unit and swam regularly for a year and practiced the piano for six months. For my expedition I joined a group from the Crown area in Inverness and we spent 4 days walking 50 miles from Dalwhinnie to Spean bridge.

I have thoroughly enjoyed all the opportunities that participating in the Duke of Edinburgh's award has provided. I have met many interesting people and would really recommend everyone interested in experiencing the fun of setting yourself goals and challenges to consider taking part.

Thank to all those who supported me through all the levels of the award.

Calum Ross

3/5/2010