What is Duke of Edinburgh?

A life-changing experience. A fun time with friends. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for life and work. A recognised mark of achievement; respected by employers.

There are three progressive levels which, when successfully completed, leads to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

 

Why should I take part?

Achieving an Award isn’t a competition or about being first. It’s all about setting personal challenges and pushing personal boundaries.  It comprises four elements:

Service:  this section is to give service to other people and to the local community.  It gives participants the opportunity to improve their self-confidence, to accept responsibility, understand strengths, appreciate other people and care for the environment.

Expeditions:  students will plan, prepare and undertake an adventurous journey usually on foot but also sometimes on bikes, horseback or even in canoes, in an unfamiliar and remote environment. Pupils become part of a self-reliant team working together to overcome challenges.  The training syllabus includes safety and emergency procedures, basic first aid, navigation, route finding, map and compass skills, camp craft, country, highway and water sports codes and team building.

Skills:  this is all about developing personal interests and learning practical skills. It gives students the chance to learn something new, get organised, meet new people, try something different and have fun.

Physical Recreation:  within this section students get involved in a sport or physical activity, giving pupils opportunities to improve fitness, meet new challenges, increase self-confidence and gain a sense of achievement.

Next Steps

Through the programme you will have fun, make friends, improve your self-esteem and build confidence.  With our support you will gain essential skills and attributes for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive.

Employers and universities recognise the work-ready skills that award holders bring and it will form a key part of any personal statement.  When you join our Sixth Form, we will promote a variety of enrichment activities; opt into the Duke of Edinburgh (Silver), meet weekly to plan your portfolio.