Trainee solicitor receives Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award
Emma Batstone, a trainee solicitor at the Sherborne office of Mogers Drewett has received a Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award at a ceremony held at St. James’s Palace in London. The award was presented by mountaineer Jo Bradshaw, the first British woman to scale both Mount Everest and Lhotse.
Amongst her Duke of Edinburgh activities Emma volunteered with St’ John’s Ambulance and spent four days at the Royal Cornwall Show, played the number 10 position in a ladies’ rugby team at Exeter University, and joined an expedition in the Brecon Beacons for five days.
“Pursuing the Award has really helped me with my self-confidence, especially in group situations.” explained Emma. “I was made aware of my own strengths and weaknesses and how to react under pressure.
“Teamwork is definitely the key, especially when your team is tired, hungry, and suffering from all sorts of discomfort. It has helped me to understand how different members of a team work together and how to deal with different characters. I would recommend doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award to absolutely anyone. It’s a great way of discovering yourself, and above all it is so much fun. One of the best experiences of my life.
“Visiting the palace and meeting the Duke of Edinburgh was a great honour. It was a wonderful day and I was very proud. Receiving the award has inspired me to apply to help at local Duke of Edinburgh organisations and hopefully I can train to be a Leader.”
Emma started her training with Mogers Drewett in September 2015 after graduating from BPP University in Bristol where she gained a postgraduate diploma (with distinction) in Legal Practice. Prior to that she graduated from University of Exeter in 2014 with a LLB Law Degree. Emma will finish her training contract in 2017 and is also currently studying for a Masters qualification in Legal Practice and Business.
