What is the DofE?

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) aims to provide for young people an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development, which is of the highest quality and the widest reach.

The key principles of the award are that it should be:

Non-competitive – a personal challenge, not a competition.

Available to all – anyone can do it!

Voluntary – it is up to the individual what they do, it is their leisure time.

Flexible – the programme is designed by the individual, for them.

Balanced – it will stretch them in all directions.

Progressive – they improve at their own pace.

Achievement focused – they can’t fail.

A marathon, not a sprint – it takes more than a short burst of enthusiasm.

Personal development – it’s the taking part that matters; getting an award is the icing on the cake.

Enjoyable – it’s about getting out there and having fun!

The award is made up of 4 sections, that students must complete:

1. Volunteering - Supporting individuals or giving back to the community.

2. Physical - Improving in an area of sport, dance or fitness.

3. Skills - Developing practical and social skills and personal interests.

4. Expedition - Planning, training for and completing an adventurous journey, with over night camping.

There is an additional section on the Gold Award - Residential. Students need to participate in a week long residential.