Palace visit for Stopsley teacher

Head of design technology David Bond went to St James’ Palace to meet the Duke, who presented him with a 20-year service certificate.

David is the longest serving member of the Stopsley team and runs the programme in his spare time after school.

He has been instrumental in enabling hundreds of students learn more about themselves and others through a variety of interesting and challenging opportunities.

The school’s DofE manager, Adam King, said he was delighted that David’s contribution had been recognised and added: “Meeting the Duke and Olympic silver medallist Phil Brown at the Palace is testament to his hard work and commitment to the young people of this town.”

Over the past two decades the design technology teacher has organised and attended 80 expeditions across the country.

He has also led the school’s Cancer Research UK Relay for Life team, encouraging DofE students to take part and raising £15,000 in the process.

David has never had the chance to complete his own Bronze, Silver and Gold awards but he’s decided to take on the DofE Diamond Challenge to celebrate its 60th anniversary. He has pledged to walk 1,000 miles in a year.

> The DofE is the world’s leading youth achievement award, giving millions of 14 to 24-year-olds the opportunity to be the very best they can be. Find out more at www.dofe.org