What is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?
The DofE is a life-changing adventure you don’t want to miss. It’s about going the extra mile – learning new skills for work and life, getting fitter, helping others, and exploring the countryside. Millions of young people in the UK have already done their DofE and gained a widely recognised personal achievement award. Employers, Universities and Colleges all highly value the skills and experience that you gain from completing an award.
Adventurous, caring, sporty, creative… however you might describe yourself, the DofE is for you.
Anyone in a school year in which you turn 14 to aged 24 can take part. There are three progressive levels of programmes which lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold DofE Award.
To achieve your Bronze Award, you’ll need to complete your own programme of activities in Volunteering, Physical, Skills sections then train for and complete a 2 day (1 night) outdoor expedition.
To achieve your Silver Award, you’ll need to complete the same 4 sections as Bronze above but spend between 6 and 9 months on these showing progression and development. If you are progressing from Bronze you can choose the same activities but need to show increased involvement and commitment. The expedition section is where the greatest gains in personal development, confidence and resilience are seen. You will train and plan for 2 expeditions each over 3 days and 2 nights and usually camping. On the second (qualifying) expedition you will be assessed on your teamwork, campcraft and navigation skills.
Why do your DofE?
From the first day to the last it’s a real adventure. Every section gives you something different – that’s the fun of it! Learners enjoy loads of new experiences, discover talents they never thought they had and challenge themselves. Plus you’ll do things you love and get a kick out of. It’s a real buzz!
Then there’s all the other stuff:
✓ achieving an Award will give learners skills, confidence and a view on life that everyone is looking for, from employers to colleges and universities
✓ learners’ getting recognised for doing things you want to do (and may even be doing already)
✓ learners’ making a difference to other people’s lives and your community
✓ recognised by Universities and employers
