What is the Duke of Edinburgh's Award?
A Duke of Edinburgh programme is a real adventure from beginning to end. It doesn't matter who you are or where you’re from. You just need to be aged between 14 and 24 and realise there’s more to life than sitting on a sofa watching life pass you by.
Levels
You can do programmes at three levels, which when completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
Sections
You achieve your Award by completing a personal programme of activities in four sections (five if you're going for Gold) - Volunteering, Physical, Skills, Expedition and for Gold, a Residential.
You'll find yourself helping people or the community, getting fitter, developing skills, going on an expedition and taking part in a residential activity (Gold only).
The best bit is - you get to choose what you do!
Your programme can be full of activities and projects that get you buzzing, and along the way you’ll pick up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
If you're still not sure, take a look at why other people think you should do it!
Why is it important?
The D of E Award is at the top of the list of items that employers look for when you apply for jobs, it shows that you have commitment as the first level of the program takes a minimum of 6 months to complete; normally it is about 9 months.
Universities look for it as it shows that you are an individual who can support other people, a) in your own teams, b) in the wider community. It shows that you have motivation to complete programs and achieve great things. If you complete all three levels it shows that you are more interested in doing physical activities, learning new skills and helping other people than sitting at home watching TV or playing computer games all day long.
Who can you ask for advice?
You can speak to Mrs Crawford. Ask your form tutor, or have a look at the D of E Website.
Where?
The award program happens at school at different times during the week, the time and location will depend on which level you are doing and which sessions you can make. More details will be given to you about where to go when you apply.
When?
Most of the sessions happen after school, with expedition happening at weekends or during half terms. Each of the other sections can be done at you own pace, all of which will be explained upon enrollment.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I enroll for DofE? – you can enroll by going and see Mrs Crawford or downloading the enrollment form and return it to Mrs Crawford with payment.
- How much does it cost? - Currently the cost for doing your Bronze Award is £180. The Silver award is about £180, however this is dependent on where you decide to go. At this moment we don't offer gold expeditions, however we can work with you to achieve your Gold Award.
- What does the cost cover? – The cost of enrolling you onto Edofe, Your welcome pack, and equipment and materials needed for you expedition training, use of tents, stoves fuel and all fee relating the expeditions.
- Are there any other costs? – Yes there are other costs, you must have your own walking boots which have been broken in, also you will need to supply your own food on expedition. We do have some kit that can be used for your expedition, however this is on a first come first served basis.
- How old do I have to be? – In order to take part in the Bronze award you need to be 14, however sometimes exceptions are made if you are 13 ½ and all of your friends are doing the award.