Sienna Clarke, a 14-year-old student from Middlewich High School, has been recognized for her dedicated volunteering efforts at Reaseheath Equestrian Centre, where she supports disabled horse riders through Nantwich Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) as part of her bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. Her work involves assisting children with disabilities such as cerebral palsy and learning difficulties, helping them build confidence and coordination while ensuring their safety on horses. For her commitment, endurance, and leadership, Sienna was named New Young Volunteer of the Year in the Nantwich RDA Awards 2025.
Middlewich High School’s head teacher, Lydia Naylor, praised Sienna and other students participating in the DofE program for their positive impact on the community and personal growth in confidence and leadership skills. The Duke of Edinburgh Award, which has seen record participation in 2024-25 with 342,000 young people involved, encourages youth aged 14 to 24 to engage in volunteering and skill-building activities, fostering lifelong development and community service.
Ruth Marvel OBE, CEO of the DofE Award, highlighted the transformative power of volunteering, emphasizing how it helps young people develop work-related skills and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Sienna plans to continue her volunteering journey by pursuing the silver DofE Award, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to helping others and personal development.
