Nik’s Duke of Edinburgh Archery Journey

At just 14 years old, Nik is already making excellent progress towards his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, with archery providing the physical activity element of his journey.

Nik lives with his great-grandparents, who are also his legal guardians, and attends Brymore Academy as a day pupil. After the summer holidays, he will begin an exciting new chapter as a weekly boarder.

His connection with the Bowmen of Danesfield began in 2023 when, as a pupil at Danesfield School, he joined one of the club’s Wednesday evening Beginners’ Courses. After successfully completing the course, he earned his beginner’s certificate and discovered a sport that he thoroughly enjoyed.

As part of his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Nik has now returned to the club, shooting regularly on Saturday mornings. One of the unexpected highlights has been reconnecting with Sarah, one of the club’s mentors, who was also his Beaver Leader at Watchet Sea Scouts several years ago.

Since returning, Nik has continued to develop both his skills and confidence. Living with asthma and FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), he has found that archery provides a sport where he can progress at his own pace while building fitness, focus and self-belief. He has achieved his 252 Awards at both 10 and 20 yards and is currently working towards his 30-yard award. Each session brings new challenges, and he is determined to continue improving.

Looking ahead, Nik hopes that archery will remain part of his Duke of Edinburgh journey through both his Silver and Gold Awards. The sport has already helped him build resilience, concentration and confidence, while giving him the opportunity to be part of a friendly and supportive club where everyone is encouraged to achieve their own personal goals.

Sarah’s Perspective

“It has been a real pleasure to welcome Nik back to Bowmen of Danesfield. Having known him previously through Watchet Sea Scouts, it’s wonderful to see how much he has grown in confidence and maturity.

Nik approaches every session with a positive attitude and a real willingness to learn. He listens carefully, works hard to improve and is always keen to challenge himself. Seeing him achieve his 252 Awards has been thoroughly deserved, and it has been rewarding to watch his progress.

One of the great strengths of archery is that everyone develops at their own pace, and Nik has embraced that brilliantly. I hope his Duke of Edinburgh journey is just the beginning and that we’ll continue to see him at the club as he progresses through his Silver and Gold Awards. I have no doubt he has a bright future in the sport.”

Everyone at Bowmen of Danesfield is proud to support young people through their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. We look forward to following Nik’s journey and celebrating the milestones that lie ahead.