A STUDENT has become the youngest person ever at a Darlington sixth form to receive the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Sophia Sheppard is the youngest ever from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College to win the gold award.

As part of the experience, the 18-year-old spent a week in Tanzania last summer learning about the role of a midwife and helping in hospitals.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is an internationally recognised challenge for young people aged 14 to 24.

Speaking about her trip, Miss Sheppard said: “Coming back after that experience makes you realise how much we have - I think people my age take a lot for granted.

“I went to an orphanage there, and they were the happiest people I’ve ever met, and they have so little.

“It was worlds apart from here,” she added.

Her mother, Deborah Sheppard, said: “I think it’s fantastic - it is a massive achievement to commit yourself to so many things, and to keep your A levels running alongside it.

“I wouldn’t have been able to do it at 17,” she added.

Miss Sheppard will be receiving her award at a ceremony in Edinburgh in July.