By Royal appointment at Eastwood High

The Duke of Wessex was visiting in his capacity as a representative for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards scheme presenting East Ren’s young people with their awards.

During his visit, HRH watched pupils rehearsing a play in the school’s drama studio; saw the art and design work of pupils studying for their Advanced Higher qualification; met Eastwood High’s head boy and girl; spent time with pupils and local DofE participants who spoke to him about the activities they are involved in and their experiences of the award, and heard first-hand from young people who are set to complete a gold expedition when they climb North Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Toubkal, next year.

During the morning he also presented Duke of Edinburgh gold badges to Alison Budge, Emma MacLennan and Daniel Higgins.

Kirsten Watson, Harris Ali and Scott Kennedy received silver badges and certificates.

The Earl also toured the modern, innovative school which has been commended for the quality of its design, build and furnishing and was escorted throughout the visit by Eastwood High head teacher, Stuart Maxwell.

East Renfrewshire convener for education and equalities, Councillor Elaine Green, said: “We were delighted to welcome HRH, The Earl of Wessex, to Eastwood High and show him around the new school which has been recognised as an excellent environment for learning and teaching.

“The six youngsters presented with their awards should be very proud of their fantastic achievement. Duke of Edinburgh awards are not easy to gain and require a lot of commitment and hard work over a long period of time. They’ve all worked extremely hard, so this is well deserved.”

East Renfrewshire convener for community services and community safety, Councillor Mary Montague, said: “Warm congratulations to all our young people on a wonderful achievement.”