The President’s Award – called Gaisce – is a self-development programme for young people in Ireland between the ages of 15 and 25. The word Gaisce means great achievement. If you achieve an award you get a medal in a presentation box, a certificate signed by the President and a lapel pin.

To achieve a Gaisce award, you set a demanding challenge for yourself in 4 different areas of activity:

• Community involvement – for example, helping older people or learning first aid or lifesaving skills
• Personal skill – for example, learning a musical instrument, computer skills or driving
• Physical recreation – for example, swimming, football or tennis
• Adventure journey – for example, a cycling, canoeing or hiking group trip

To achieve the top level of award (Gold) you must also take part in a residential project, such as a residential Irish-language course, a residential sports course or a work placement in a care home.

When you have achieved your personal challenges, you will earn your award.