Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
This voluntary, non-competitive programme of extra-curricular activities is designed to support the personal and social development of young people. CSIA offers all 3 levels of the award (Bronze, Silver and Gold), all of which require substantial commitment and are highly regarded by employers and higher education.
The Bronze award begins in Year 9, Silver in Year 10 and Gold is on offer to those students who continue into The VI Form Academy. In order to complete an award, students are expected to attend regular after-school sessions targeting the 4 sections of the award – Skill, Physical, Volunteering and Expedition. Expeditions are often considered the highlight of the award and this is no exception at CSIA with locations including Penwith to Snowdonia.
Awards are presented at the end of the year, along with invitations to Buckingham Palace for those completing the Gold award.
Ten Tors Challenge
The annual Ten Tors Challenge is widely regarded as one of the most challenging events uniquely intended for young people attracting teams from all over the country. For many participants the event stands out as a highlight of their teenage years, and for some, will be a life-changing experience.
CSIA students have the opportunity to join the 35, 45, or 55 mile teams on hikes covering that distance in 2 days over the rough terrain of the Dartmoor National Park. The teams of 6 must be self-sufficient, carrying all they need to camp out on the moor and safely complete their route before the 5pm deadline. Weather conditions can be testing and success or failure will depend on how the team has applied themselves during the training events.
