How Kamaruka boosts student engagement and attendance

The Duke of Ed Award has significantly enhanced student engagement and attendance by aligning with students’ individual interests and goals. The flexibility of the program allows students to take ownership of their learning journey. For example, many students were particularly motivated by the skills component, which was tailored to include vocational pathways such as obtaining their White Card—essential for entering the trade industry the following year. This real-world relevance has helped drive consistent participation and a sense of purpose in their schooling.

The award is designed with flexibility in mind, which allows us to scaffold tasks and tailor the experience to meet individual learning profiles. At Kamaruka, students are explicitly taught and mentored throughout each component. We break down activities into manageable steps, provide visual aids and structured routines, and adjust expectations based on students’ strengths and challenges. This inclusive approach ensures that students with additional needs feel supported and capable of success.

Vocational skills such as the White Card and First Aid Certificate are embedded into our academic programs, particularly English and Personal Development. In class, students analyse course content, identify key vocabulary, and complete written and oral comprehension tasks. This integration not only prepares them for the certification process but also strengthens essential academic skills like reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It gives students a tangible reason to engage with literacy in a meaningful context.

Thanks to generous funding from the Duke of Edinburgh organisation, we are able to facilitate and supplement the costs of delivering the award. As the teacher, I oversee each component and draw on a range of additional resources to support student learning. For instance, during the Adventurous Journey component, we collaborate with outdoor recreation specialists who help design engaging, accessible outdoor experiences.

Student progress is monitored through weekly attendance tracking, work samples, reflective journals, and practical demonstrations. We also capture photos and videos to document their journey, showcasing growth and achievements. This evidence is compiled and shared with the Duke of Ed organisation, as well as with families during our end-of-year presentation day. This celebration of progress helps reinforce student pride in their efforts and achievements