Young people in Renfrewshire celebrated for Duke of Edinburgh Award
More than 230 young people across Renfrewshire were celebrated at a special Duke of Edinburgh Award ceremony held at Paisley Town Hall.
Article Source: Renfrewshire Council
Last Updated: 13 March 2026 12:43
This year marked a record for the programme locally, with 232 young people achieving their Duke of Edinburgh Award – the highest number of completions to date in Renfrewshire.
The event brought together volunteers, families, school staff and Duke of Edinburgh leaders to recognise the dedication of those completing their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a globally recognised youth achievement programme open to young people aged 14 to 25. Those who take part volunteer for organisations, such as charities and non-profits, as well as developing practical skills through sports, musical instruments, and expeditions.
In Renfrewshire, the programme is supported and delivered by Renfrewshire Council’s Youth Services team, who work closely with secondary schools and community organisations to give young people the opportunity to take part and succeed.
Throughout the evening, young people took to the stage to celebrate their achievements and reflect on what completing their Award meant to them. Among those sharing their experiences was Chloe Anderson, a visually impaired student from Park Mains High School, who gave a heartwarming presentation about the barriers she overcame while earning her award.
William Singer, a pupil at Gryffe High School, spoke about his journey to completing his Gold Award: “The main thing I learned is that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice or the boldest person in the room, but it’s about showing up for people and helping others grow.
“When I go to University next year, which is stepping into the unknown, I’ve learned so much from doing the Duke of Edinburgh that I feel I can come out on top.”
Charlie Ross, a pupil at Mary Russel School, received his Silver Award. He said: “Physical exercise and volunteering is worth it. You are building up yourself bit by bit, and I’ve made a lot of friends who have the same interests as me. I’m going to go for my gold award next to follow in my Papa’s footsteps.”
The celebration marks another successful year for the programme in Renfrewshire, with growing numbers of young people taking part and making a positive contribution to communities throughout the area.
Councillor Bruce MacFarlane, Renfrewshire’s Young Person’s Champion, said: “Hearing from our young people tonight about what they have gained from the experience was inspiring. It was clear from their stories just how much the Award has helped them grow in confidence and try new challenges.
“The Duke of Edinburgh programme is really about teamwork, determination and leadership, qualities that will stay with them for life. This will help set our young people up for success in the years to come, whether in education, employment or further opportunities in their communities.”
“Just as importantly, our volunteer leaders play a crucial role in guiding and supporting them every step of the way. Thanks to everyone who helps deliver this programme for Renfrewshire each year.”
Sponsored Links
Latest Renfrewshire News
Scottish secondary schools can fundraise to feed hungry children
Secondary schools across Scotland can fundraise to feed an entire school of hungry children by signing up for a charity's life-changing Feed A School initiative.
READ MORE
Inspiring young readers: Paisley Book Festival announces 2026 schools programme line up
Paisley Book Festival has unveiled its exciting 2026 Schools Programme line-up, set to inspire hundreds of young people through a series of author events, workshops and interactive sessions.
READ MORE
FREE Event: Discover super powered plants at Dobbies Little Seedlings Club
Dobbies' free-to-attend children's gardening workshop is here for the month of May, giving children the chance to discover the 'Power of Plants'.
READ MORE
Snap up free tickets to The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show in Glasgow or Edinburgh
The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Scotland's only dedicated consumer exhibition for self-builders, home renovators and improvers, is back and we have free tickets up for grabs!
READ MORE
Spring clean shoes to protect heritage, urges National Trust for Scotland
With warmer days on the way, visitors to gardens at National Trust for Scotland places are being asked to follow biosecurity measures throughout the spring and summer seasons.
READ MORE
Fan favourites return to Vue venues in Scotland this spring
Vue is bringing a roster of much-loved film favourites back to the big screen this spring as part of a special anniversary season celebrating some of Hollywood’s most iconic titles.
READ MORE
Aldi calls on shoppers across Scotland to donate pet food in stores this National Pet Month
Aldi is encouraging shoppers in Scotland to donate pet food at its in-store community donation points this April to mark National Pet Month.
READ MORE
Sound of Paisley rings loud and proud at first arts festival
Brilliant Buddies were celebrated as the first Paisley Arts Festival was declared a hit!
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Springfest is back
Get ready for a brilliant weekend at the free Loch Lomond Springfest on 4th and 5th April, featuring world-class chefs, wild foraging, tasty street food and non-stop family fun for all ages!
READ MORE
Top family days and dining deals to enjoy in Scotland this Easter
Families looking to make the most of the Easter holidays in Scotland will find plenty to enjoy over the break!
READ MORE
Spring starts with Dobbies Spring Shopping Evening
Celebrate the colours of spring at Dobbies Spring Shopping Evening, a free-to-attend evening event dedicated to outdoor living and seasonal inspiration, taking place on Thursday 2nd April!
READ MORE
Last chance to enter for lunch with George Clooney
Entries are closing soon for the chance to have lunch with Hollywood icon George Clooney as part of itison's fundraising campaign for Social Bite.
READ MORE
Doors set to reopen across the country to some of the most iconic historic sites in Scotland
More than 40 historic seasonal sites across the country will reopen to visitors from Wednesday 1st April, as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) marks the start of its spring/summer season.
READ MORE
One of the best loved food brands in the country is bringing back its popular Golden Easter Hunt
Launching just in time for the school holidays, this year it's set to be bigger, bolder and even more exciting - and it's free for anyone to enter!
READ MORE
Fly high at Paisley Arts Festival family fun day
A playground of flight, freedom and joy will be part of larger-than-life family fun in Paisley centre this Saturday, 28th March!
READ MORE
Spring is in the air as ACCORD Hospice annual Art Exhibition opens at The Art Department
ACCORD Hospice Annual Art Exhibition takes place for a fifth year at The Art Department, 9-11 Causeyside Street, Paisley.
READ MORE
Spectacular stage productions to enjoy at Vue this spring
To celebrate World Theatre Day (27 March), Vue is highlighting upcoming theatre and opera productions showing on the big screen.
READ MORE
Inspirational community members recognised by Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron
Renfrewshire has honoured local groups and volunteers for their work in the community at the Provost’s Community Awards.
READ MORE
Irvine Welsh: My friend Pam Hogg made you feel like the most important person in the room
Renowned writer shares memories of his special friend as he prepares to join other leading figures in Scottish culture to celebrate designer's life and legacy at special event in her home town.
READ MORE
Prospective foster parents in Glasgow and Renfrewshire are invited to join charity for drop in event
Kibble is inviting individuals, couples and families in Glasgow and Renfrewshire to an informal drop-in event to learn more about fostering and the life-changing impact it can have.
READ MORE
Popular feastival returns to Paisley
Renfrewshire's events programme gets underway next month as the ever-popular Paisley Food and Drink Festival makes its return offering an array of delicious dishes and fantastic entertainment for all!
READ MORE
Scope Renfrewshire presents A Night With The Artists
Arts collective, Scope Renfrewshire are delighted to announce they are hosting a special night with artists, part of the first ever Paisley Arts Festival which takes place from 26-29 March 2026.
READ MORE
Come and experience the Ideal Home Show Scotland this Spring
Scotland's biggest home event is back at Glasgow SEC from 22nd - 25th May 2026 and we're delighted to offer free tickets to our readers!
READ MORE
Summer events taking place at historic sites across Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland has announced its summer events programme, with events taking place at iconic heritage sites across the country!
READ MORE
Grab some Buddie Good Deals here in Paisley town centre as part of March Madness
Grab some Buddie Good Deals here in Paisley town centre until Saturday 28th March!
READ MORE
Hop into Easter at Dobbies with Gabbys Dollhouse Little Seedlings Club
Dobbies is teaming up with Gabby's Dollhouse to bring an extra special spring themed experience to families at its free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club on 4th April, packed with fun and creativity.
READ MORE
OneRen: Growing programme is opening opportunities for locals and new visitors to region, boosting business
Paisley's increasing stature as a festivals town will play a significant part in the community’s economic and cultural growth, supporters say.
READ MORE
Vic Galloway: Punk, Paisley and the music that changed my life
Vic Galloway to host major names in Scottish music at Punk to Paolo event, celebrating Paisley's amazing contemporary music story.
READ MORE
Young people in Renfrewshire celebrated for Duke of Edinburgh Award
More than 230 young people across Renfrewshire were celebrated at a special Duke of Edinburgh Award ceremony held at Paisley Town Hall.
READ MORE
Scottish Excellence Awards 2026 Shortlist showcases strength of hospitality sector
Finalists have been announced for the highly anticipated Scottish Excellence Awards 2026.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links