Eastbourne College Pupils Log 3,497 Hours of Volunteering Through DofE

Eastbourne College is celebrating the exceptional dedication of its pupils, who contributed 3,497 hours of volunteering between April 2024 and March 2025 as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE). Their efforts, from beach clean-ups to coaching sport, generated nearly £22,500 in social value, strengthening ties between the school and the wider Eastbourne community.

To mark this achievement, Headmaster Tom Lawson hosted a celebration barbecue in his garden for DofE participants. Special service awards were presented by Martin Houghton-Brown, Secretary General of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation. Notably, Gihan Karunanayake and Matt Clover received five-year awards, while Dan Tebay, Eastbourne’s long-standing DofE Manager, was honoured for 25 years of service.

Mr Tebay said, “Each year, I’m incredibly proud of the time and energy our pupils give to our local community. Their volunteering not only supports others, it also plays a huge role in their own personal growth.”

In 2024 alone, 47 pupils completed their Silver Award and 22 their Gold, with over 200 currently enrolled in the programme. Emilia, 17, a Gold participant, reflected: “Volunteering for DofE taught me the value of giving back… and unexpected growth in myself.”