Duke of Edinburgh commemorative stone unveiled
A commemorative stone to mark the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) award scheme has been unveiled on the grounds of Moray College UHI.
The stone - which is situated on the site of the old Elgin Academy building - was unveiled by Mrs Nancy Robson, OBE, DL, Vice Lord-Lieutenant for Moray, and will form part of a DofE Moray trail. The trail includes commemorative stones at Fochabers designed in 2016 by DofE participants, one at Elgin Academy and a plaque at the Moray Council headquarters. A further stone will be unveiled at Gordonstoun. There is also an exhibition at the Fochabers Heritage and Folk Museum.
Building on the Moray Badge from 1936, the idea of an award scheme to support young people was the brainchild of Gordonstoun Headmaster, Kurt Hahn and the late HRH the Duke of Edinburgh who attended Gordonstoun, both of whom were keen outdoor enthusiasts. It was important to the founders that the Award was available to young people in both public and private schools when it was launched jointly in 1956.
Karen Delaney, Moray Council’s former DofE award manager said:
“This stone serves as a reminder to students and visitors that they can participate in DofE up until they are 25 years old, and can also learn and share skills at any age as a volunteer. They will be building on a rich heritage.”
Rebecca Raynes, Operations Manager with DofE Scotland said:
"I am delighted to be a part of today's celebrations of the unique place Moray plays in the history of The Duke of Edinburgh Award. Across the world, The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is operational in more than 130 countries and territories, building confidence, resilience, and perseverance in all those who take part. In Scotland this year 16,638 young people have started the Award, 20% of whom are facing marginalisation. We look forward to welcoming many more on a journey of self-discovery and personal development."
David Patterson, Principal and Chief Executive, Moray College UHI said:
"We’re delighted to have our place in history recognised in establishing Moray’s DofE story with the unveiling of the stone at Moray College UHI. DofE is about building skills and confidence, creating your own path plus giving back to the community, which aligns well with our core values and our mission here to be at the heart of transformation in Moray and for people in Moray."