Bucks teenager overcomes challenges and wins prestigious award

A Buckinghamshire teenager has been recognised with the prestigious Trailblazer of the Year award for his outstanding leadership and determination while completing his Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE).

Harry Jones, a student at Chiltern Way Academy, a Special Educational Needs institution, is being celebrated for his work going above and beyond to support his team.

The award honours individuals who demonstrate exceptional effort and impact, and Harry's journey is a testament to overcoming challenges and inspiring others.

Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, he said: "I was very surprised when I found out I won the award.

"My mum received an e-mail, and she showed me, and we were both, ‘Wow, I won. I can't believe this!’"

Harry began his DofE journey as a reserved student, initially reluctant to interact with others.

Over time, as he progressed through the Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels of the award, he grew in confidence, forging connections with his peers.

By the time he embarked on the Gold-level expedition, Harry had not only come out of his shell but had taken on a leadership role, helping others overcome their own obstacles.

"There were a few students who had a lot of trouble," Harry explained. "I did my best to help them, and we ended up completing the walk."

Matthew Rush, a teacher at Chiltern Way Academy and Harry’s DofE leader, described Harry’s efforts: "He effectively did the expedition three times because he ended up helping other groups.

"It was Harry that calmed them all down, especially when some of them got quite emotional. If it weren’t for Harry, those other students wouldn’t have got their Gold Award either."

Harry’s commitment extended beyond his own group.

He is helping to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people living with special needs, especially teenagers like himself.

He said: "It is 100% important to do everything we can to help people with these different types of needs.

"Obviously, there are people who perhaps have a physical disability that we can see, but not everyone has a physical disability.

"Some you can't see, but we have to do what we can to interact with those people and figure out, ‘How can we help you?’"

Harry credited the supportive environment at Chiltern Way Academy for helping him grow.

"I owe a lot to the school and the staff there," he said. "The staff really helped me, especially my Duke of Edinburgh teacher."

In recognition of his achievement, the school framed the press release and displayed it in their reception area.

The award also led Harry to Buckingham Palace, where he met Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, and Jason Fox, known from SAS: Who Dares Wins, who served as a judge for Harry’s category.

"It was myself and my mum. We got to meet His Royal Highness and the other winners of the other categories. They were amazing people, a lovely group," Harry added.

Harry thanked his family, school staff, and sponsors, including the Gosling Foundation, for their unwavering support throughout his journey.