The Award Scheme comprises four sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skill and Expedition. Once all four sections are completed, and assessors reports have been received and approved, participants will receive a badge and certificate.
Participants will receive advice and support for all sections within school. Training for expeditions will take place in school, a training walk in the local area and further training on their Practice expedition. Both practice and assessed expeditions will take place within Leicestershire.
Participants will be supported in finding opportunities to pursue the other three sections should they not be able to find anywhere themselves. Indeed, the local community offers fantastic support to our participants whilst they pursue the different sections of the Award. Participants can use existing interests to use for activities for the Award, or they can try learning new skills.
The Award is a very prestigious scheme that helps to equip young people for life beyond school.
Young people acknowledge that they face a competitive environment when leaving school, with 93% of those surveyed reported to feel under pressure to demonstrate not just their academic achievements to potential employers, but also that they will be an ‘all-rounder’ in the workplace. The DofE helps young people develop employability skills and this is recognised by participants themselves. When asked to apply their DofE experience to an interview setting, respondents said they had gained and could demonstrate skills in self-management, problem solving, team working, communication, resilience, commitment, self-reliance, a positive approach to work as well as new skills gained in the four sections.
The Award is widely recognised by Further Education, Higher Education establishments and employers and a valuable addition to CV’s. Achieving a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is not only a huge personal achievement but it can support young people beyond school into employment.
Most importantly of all, participants involved in the Award have a lot of fun!