Celebrating a Remarkable Young Leader in Oxford Spires

Tonight, I had the enormous pleasure of visiting the 22nd Oxford Scout Group and Wanderers Explorer Scout Unit to celebrate the achievements of an exceptional young person — Daisy, an Explorer Scout — who has recently completed both her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and her King’s Scout Award.

These awards are not handed out lightly. They are the culmination of perseverance, resilience, leadership, and a profound commitment to service — qualities which Daisy exemplifies with distinction. It was a genuine privilege to present them to her, in the presence of her fellow Explorers, her leaders, and Anthony and Wendy, the lead volunteers for the District and County respectively.

Daisy’s achievements are all the more remarkable for being milestones in our local Scouting history. She is the first young person in Oxford Spires District to achieve the King’s Scout Award during the reign of His Majesty King Charles III, and the first Gold DofE Award holder in the District for many years.

(Not quite as many years as the forty since I completed my Gold DofE — back before Oxford Spires District was created by merging Oxford Isis District, where I did my Scouting, with Oxford Cowley — but nonetheless a gap well worth marking!)

For me, having had the privilege of serving for more than a decade as Secretary General of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, and as Vice-Chair of the World Scout Committee for several years, the evening held a particular resonance. It was a moment of profound personal pride to witness the spirit of both organisations alive and flourishing here in Oxford — continuing to inspire a new generation, just as they have inspired me throughout my life.

The pride in the room was palpable — from her Mum and fellow Explorers to the leaders who have supported her journey. It was also a moment of reflection: a reminder of how Scouting and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award continue to provide opportunities for young people to grow in confidence, contribute to their communities, and discover just how much they are capable of.

Daisy, thank you for letting me be part of your celebration. You’re a trailblazer — and I’ve no doubt you’re already inspiring the next generation of King’s Scouts and Gold Award holders.