His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh has handed over his patronage of The Outward Bound Trust after 65 years of service.
It was announced, at an Outward Bound Trust Board meeting, that 97-year-old Prince Philip would step down from his patronage role in which he has dedicated many years of commitment.
The Duke of Edinburgh will be succeeded as Patron of the charity by his son, The Duke of York, who has been chairman of the Board of Trustees since 1999. The Duke of York will be succeeded as chairman by Charles Phillips.
Prince Philip’s involvement with the charity
HRH become a patron of the Trust in 1953 and it was his active patronage that proved instrumental in the spreading of Outward Bound’s mission to more than 30 countries. In doing so, millions of young people have participated in experiemental outdoor learning programmes which aim to develop character and instill self-belief and resilience.
Kurt Hahn, the visionary educationalist who founded Gordonstoun School, set up Outward Bound in 1941. The Duke of Edinburgh, following his education at Gordonstoun School, supported Outward Bound and both men were instrumental in the creation of The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.
“Both The Outward Bound Trust and The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme have helped instill purpose, resilience, a sense of adventure and fun in millions of young people in the UK and many countries overseas.”
Nick Barrett, chief executive of The Outward Bound Trust
The Duke of York commented: “It is an enormous privilege to take up this appointment of Patron from my father, who has been a stalwart supporter of the Trust and its work since it was founded in 1941. I was interviewed by my father for a position on the board of Trustees before I was appointed, and I knew from the outset his intent. I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges and rewards of guiding the Trust these past few years and with the wise council and guidance from my father”.
Nick Barrett, chief executive of The Outward Bound Trust, said: “Both The Outward Bound Trust and The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme have helped instil purpose, resilience, a sense of adventure and fun in millions of young people in the UK and many countries overseas.
”The Duke of Edinburgh has always stayed remarkably close to our charity. His Royal Highness has advised and challenged the Board, but also engaged brilliantly and directly when meeting with the young people who have benefitted from our programmes. The Duke of Edinburgh’s involvement has gone far beyond any mere call of duty, we are immensely thankful but also stronger for all his intelligent and thoughtful direction and interventions.”
Deputy Patron of the charity, Sir Chris Bonington added: “I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank The Duke of Edinburgh for his enduring and unflappable commitment to changing the lives of so many young people through outdoor adventurous learning. It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside him.”
The Trust also announced that HRH Princess Beatrice of York has been elected to the Board of The Outward Bound Trust as a trustee.
For more information, visit www.outwardbound.org.uk.
