The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the world’s leading youth engagement award. You can take part in volunteering, physical and skilled activities as well as an expedition that will transform your life. The award can be done alongside your study programme with just a small amount of weekly input and big rewards.
In a recent survey of universities and employers, the Duke of Edinburgh Award ranked highest in a list of extracurricular activities that they would like to see on someone’s personal statement or C.V.
If we’ve convinced you to apply for the DofE, or if you’re part way through the programme and just want a bit of guidance, read through this handy information on what’s involved in a DofE programme: award levels, sections, timings, costs and more.
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. The DofE is many things to many people, and it will support you to successfully navigate adult life.
If you’re 14-24, you can do a DofE programme at one of three progressive levels. When the levels are successfully completed, they lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold DofE award.
There are four sections to complete at Bronze and Silver level, and five at Gold. They involve helping the community/environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, planning, training for and completing an expedition and, for Gold only, working with a team on a residential activity.
Any young person can do a DofE – regardless of your ability, gender, background or location. Achieving an award isn’t a competition or about being first. It’s all about setting personal challenges and pushing personal boundaries.
You’ll have fun, make friends, improve your self-esteem and build confidence. You’ll also gain essential skills and attributes for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive, enhancing CVs and uni and job applications.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a registered charity, funded by donations, Participation Places and licences.
