Fairfax student wins scouting award: A student from Fairfax Academy is set to be honoured at Windsor Castle after achieving the highest youth award in UK Scouting.
Seventeen-year-old sixth form student Amy Willis has been awarded the prestigious King’s Scout Award, the top accolade available to Explorer Scouts and Scout Network members aged 16 to 25.
The award recognises young people who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, resilience, leadership and service to their communities through Scouting.
Amy’s scouting journey has included volunteering in the local community, taking part in expeditions and competitions across the UK and overseas, and completing challenges through initiatives such as Explorer Camps, Brumventure 2025 and Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions.
Reflecting on her achievement, Amy said: “Achieving this award has shown me just how much I am capable of. Through Scouting, I have built courage, confidence and resilience by constantly challenging myself, whether that was leading a session, abseiling or rock climbing in the rain.
“I have had so many incredible opportunities, and this award has played a huge part in developing my leadership skills and self-belief.
“Scouting has also allowed me to travel and meet people from different cultures and backgrounds. I attended the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea, where I met Scouts from around the world, and I also visited Switzerland last year to experience Swiss Scouting.
“Scouting creates so many opportunities for young people, and those experiences have helped shape who I am today.”
As part of the award, Amy will attend the National Day of Celebration and Achievement at Windsor Castle, held annually around St George’s Day. Joining King’s Scout Award recipients from across the country, she will take part in a parade and special celebration recognising the dedication, leadership and achievements of young people in Scouting.