THE Wee County has become the first local authority to have all secondary schools become 'licensed organisations' under the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

Pupils at the three publicly-funded academies can now get involved with the programme and challenge themselves with activities and experiences that help them prepare for life and work.

The final license, for Lornshill Academy, was presented by the Earl of Wessex at a recent ceremony held at the Palace of Holyrood.

Alloa and Alva academies became licensed centres earlier this year and have seen a sharp increase in the number of youngsters taking part.

Ellen Forson, council leader, attended the event along with improving outcomes manager Lorraine Sanda, and the duo were handed the certificate from Prince Edward.

The SNP leader said: “I was delighted to receive Lornshill’s licence, which marks this fantastic achievement of Clackmannanshire leading the way as the first local authority in Scotland to have direct licences for all our secondary schools.

“We are very ambitious for all our young people, and we want to raise attainment and ensure that high aspirations and positive outcomes are the expected norm for every child in Clackmannanshire.

“Taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an excellent way for our young people to learn the kind of skills that can help them be confident citizens who feel ready to take on the challenges that can face them in all aspects of life, and I’m delighted that more pupils are being encouraged to take part in our schools.”

The programme is open to anyone between the ages of 14 and 24.

It is the world’s leading youth achievement award, and is aimed at improving life and work prospects for young people.

Barry Fisher, director for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Scotland, said: “We are excited that Clackmannanshire Council has partnered with us to directly licence all their secondary schools.

“This is a new way of working in Scotland and we are confident it will enable more young people from Clackmannanshire to take part in life-changing DofE programmes.”