The Joint Award Initiative enables young people in Northern Ireland who have completed the Duke of Edinburgh programme to have a choice of certification- A Duke of Edinburgh\’s Award, Gaisce- The President\’s Award or an International Award certificate.
Grace Sommerville from Newry, Co.Down was one such person who completed her Gold Award under the JAI. Grace attended the Sacred Heart Grammar School in Newry and did her Gold Award via the South Eastern Library Board (SELB). She volunteered with her local church choir and instrumental group, played the flute with South Ulster Youth Orchestra and played golf, went on an expedition to the Lake District in England and completed the John Muir Discovery Award where she assisted young people with learning difficulties.
The Joint Award Advisory Committee recently met to discuss developments for the partnership. There are some exciting developments to come on the Joint Award Initiative- watch this space!