EDUCATION
Prestigious Award to count as high school elective credit

High school students in Nova Scotia who receive the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can now receive a credit toward graduation. Education Minister Jamie Muir announced this today, Oct. 29, at the 2004 Presentation Ceremony for Award achievers in the province.

“We’re pleased to formally recognize and support this excellent program and the students who have worked so hard to achieve the award,” said Mr. Muir. “We’re working with community partners to recognize learning and achievement outside the classroom and this award program is a great example. It enhances the public school curriculum and offers students a valuable leadership opportunity. Students are involved in activities that will make them better students and better Nova Scotians.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is open to young people between the ages of 14 and 25. Participation is voluntary and participants must meet established criteria in four areas: volunteer community service, development of a hobby or skill, participation in physical fitness activities and camping expeditions.

“This programme recognizes young people who have achieved a set standard in community service and self-improvement,” said Bonnie Baltzer, Nova Scotia Executive Director, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. “It challenges youth to get involved in activities that lead to personal growth, development and achievement.”

There are three Award levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold. Students who successfully complete the Bronze Award are eligible to receive a personal development high school elective graduation credit called Duke of Edinburgh Bronze 10 (course code # 149117). Students who achieve a Silver Award are eligible for a personal development elective credit called Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award 11 (course code # 149118), and Gold Award recipients will be eligible for a Duke of Edinburgh Gold 12 (course code # 149119) personal development elective credit.

Students who have successfully an Award level(s) of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme can apply for credit commencing the 2004-05 school year. To receive an elective credit toward graduation, the Award Achiever have to provide their school principal or guidance counselor with their final assessment and documentation (binder, Participant’s Record Book, letter of congratulations & Award pin or certificate if they have received it).