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A national award which encourages young people to explore the outdoors is being launched – during lockdown.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award pushes young people out of their comfort zone and gives a chance to enjoy the outdoors, build resilience and understand the importance of teamwork.

Despite the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown, Forest Hall School is giving students an opportunity to start working towards the Bronze Award.

Year 9 and 10 students keen to take part have met virtually with the award’s field officer via video call to learn more about the initiative.

The meeting also gave the group an opportunity to come up with alternative ways to meet the physical, skills and voluntary aspects of the award.

Students are taking on tasks such as making wallets, strength training, beekeeping and touch-typing.

Sarah Power, enrichment lead at Forest Hall, said: “We had already been discussing launching the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award before the school closures came, but were keen to still get it started. We held our first meeting via video call giving students an opportunity to find out more and to ask questions, just like we would have done if we were at school.

“We want some normality for our children. This is a perfect time to start something which will be a fantastic achievement for them. We want them to learn new skills, have new experiences and do something different in their day. This award pushes them to do something they would not normally do. Yes, they are completing schoolwork at home, but they can also achieve a nationally recognised award at the same time.

“The fact our students are willing to do this at home shows how great our young people are.”

Students will provide evidence of their work during lockdown with written statements, photos and videos to qualify for the award.

The award culminates in an expedition, which will be completed once restrictions are lifted.