A FORMER Barnet school pupil will meet with royalty next week to receive his gold Duke of Edinburgh award.

André Dalcher, who attended Queen Elizabeth's School for boys, will meet Prince Philip at the royal residence, St James' Palace, on February 24.

He is being recognised for his hard work through five sections of the DofE programme over a period of 24 months.

His diverse activities included music, table tennis, teaching chess in a primary school, and extended expeditions in the Peak District and Snowdonia

Now reading for a degree in Physics at Oxford University, André said of his DofE work: “This has been a tough but thoroughly enjoyable experience.

“The challenges encounters and the dedication needed to persevere introduce you to your real self. I am more confident about my ability to perform under pressure and more comfortable in unfamiliar environments.

“It was a good stepping stone before leaving home to go to university as it gave me the opportunity to trial myself, preparing me for future challenges with greater confidence.

“I am immensely proud of the achievement and look forward to receiving the Gold Award in St. James’s Palace.”