Prince Philip personally presented 16 students with their Duke of Edinburgh's awards during his trip to the Island this week.

The Prince was on the Island with the Queen to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Bermuda's colonisation. He started the scheme in 1956. Aimed at developing community minded and well rounded young people, it now operates in 92 countries around the world.

A special ceremony was held Wednesday at Government House to honour the recipients. They now represent only a handful of the scheme's participants to have been presented with the award by Prince Philip on Bermudian soil.

The last ceremony of its kind took place 15 years ago. At the ceremony Prince Philip remarked on the Award's success in inspiring personal and social development in young people. He said it helped them in their self-development and to recognise their achievements.

And he noted that any young person can complete the award, regardless of ability, gender or background. The scheme is split into three levels — bronze, silver and gold — with each student required to pass one level before moving on to the next. As part of the scheme, students are required to pursue a community service, a physical activity and a skill. They must also fulfil an expedition.

Gold Award recipients were Ashley Berry, Kyoto Burchall, Amber Dyer, Ryan Eve, Alex Godfrey, Kevin Minors, Nicole Nelson, Khylah Rogers, Thomas Svensen and Kallan Thomas. Those receiving their Bronze Award were Chloé Lambert, Kellisha Edwards, Patrick Chapman, Michaela Eberly, Jordan Osborne and Kristen Greene.

Bermuda has participated in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme for 42 years. Over the last ten years, more than 1,500 have received an award here. Chairman of the Bermuda scheme, Kenneth Bartram said: "It is a great honour to have Prince Philip attend the ceremony to present these awards, and we are very pleased at the opportunity to demonstrate the importance of this exciting programme.

"The Award equips participants with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and their world. It develops self-confidence, respect and understanding, and the ability to lead and work as part of a team. Participation is enjoyable, fulfilling and rewarding."