Duke of Edinburgh Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a world leading youth charity which gives all 14-24 year olds the chance to develop skills for life and work. We engage, inspire and empower over 300,000 young people a year across the UK and from every possible background.

The DofE Award is a game-changer.  We know that perseverance and passion for long-term goals is linked to success in education, life and work. Our structured programme of volunteering, physical and skills based challenges inspire, guide and support young people to achieve.

We believe that anything is possible and the possibilities are endless. The positive effects of the DofE are proven and far-reaching. Communities are enriched with passionate and driven volunteers, businesses benefit from work-ready, competent recruits and young people are given the confidence to shine.

Our Vision is:

To reach more young people from diverse backgrounds and equip them to succeed in life.

Our Mission is:

To inspire, guide and support young people in their self-development and recognise their achievements.

The Award consists of activities in four sections Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and an Expedition. The Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections are completed by the pupils in their own time. For the Expedition section they work with staff during lunchtimes and after school to prepare for this.

 Volunteering -  Participants can help at a nursing/rest home, at GSPCA, with a sports club/youth/church club or with the Cubs/Brownies/Scouts.

• Physical - This section gives participants the opportunity to develop in a physical activity of their choice.

• Skills - Participants pursue a hobby, skill or interest.

• Expedition - This section encourages participants to learn to use maps and to become self-sufficient whilst exploring the great outdoors. Participants must plan and execute a self-sufficient expedition with others. Strong team skills are essential. At Bronze level this culminates in a 2 day walking expedition.

For further information please visit the website http://www.dofe.org/ or contact your tutor or head of year for more guidance.