Chief Scout congratulates Amanda Charlton & Thomas Charlton on achieving King’s Scout Award

On Sunday 26th of April, Chief Scout Dwayne Fields had the honour of congratulating Amanda and Thomas Charlton from Dukinfield at a special event held at Windsor Castle.

The Chief Scout was in Windsor congratulating the young awardees for achieving the King’s Scout Award – the highest recognition in Scouting for adventure and skill development. 

Set against the historic backdrop of the Castle’s Quadrangle, the occasion brought together Scouts, families and supporters to mark an extraordinary milestone in the lives of these remarkable young people.

Scout Ambassadors, including Astronaut Tim Peake, were also there to join in the celebration and cheer on these outstanding young people for their amazing achievement. 

The Award recognises outstanding personal achievement and is earned by Scouts aged 16 to 25. To achieve it, young people complete a series of ambitious challenges, including volunteering in their community, undertaking an expedition in wild country, and taking part in a five‑day residential experience in a new environment. They also develop an existing talent or learn new skills that build on what they’ve gained through Scouting. Along the way, they deliver projects that make a remarkable impact and leave a lasting legacy within their local communities.

Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields said “Huge congratulations to every single one of you on achieving your King’s Scout Award. This is something truly special. It shows the grit, determination and passion you’ve put into your Scouting journey.

You’ve stepped up, shown leadership, gained skills, and made a real difference to the people around you  - helping give others a place to belong. That’s what being a Scout is all about.

This award isn’t just a pat on the back for what you’ve done so far, it’s a reminder of the incredible potential you’ve got for whatever comes next. I’m excited to see where you go from here. Keep pushing forward, keep saying ‘yes’ to new challenges, and keep leading the way”

King’s Scout Amanda said “I completed my King’s Scout Award in 2024, but chose to defer so I could celebrate it alongside my friends this year, has been a really meaningful journey for me. I’ve volunteered with Beavers since I was 14, helping young people learn kindness and teamwork, and it’s been amazing to see how those small moments have helped shape their confidence as they grow.

Scouting has been a huge part of my life, from attending the World Scout Jamboree in Korea to developing my first aid skills, and it’s played a big role in my decision to train as a paramedic. The King’s Scout Award has helped me grow in confidence, build lasting friendships, and learn more about myself in a supportive environment.”

Thomas said “Completing my King’s Scout Award has been a long journey that I’ve worked towards for many years, alongside Scouts and school. One of the most rewarding parts for me was leading a litter pick along a local canal with Cubs, helping them design posters and understand the importance of looking after their environment - something they’ve continued to do ever since.”

My expedition in the Peak District was a real challenge, especially as I have hypermobility and found the up-and-down terrain difficult after time away from training, but I was proud to push through it! Having been in Scouts all my life, completing the King’s Scout Award has been a real sense of achievement and a challenge I’m proud to have completed.”

This annual event at Windsor Castle has taken place since 1934 on the Sunday closest to St George’s Day (23 April) and is dedicated to celebrating the achievements and development of young people. The day is a moment of celebration, with award holders and their families coming together to share in the occasion.

It’s a special day for loved ones to watch with pride as the young people receive their well‑deserved recognition and to join in the sense of celebration. For the awardees themselves, the event is not only an opportunity to be acknowledged for their hard work, but also a chance to reflect on their journey alongside peers, creating meaningful memories and a deep sense of pride that will stay with them for years to come.