Enhancement > The Duke of Edinburgh's Award

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is for all young people, whatever their background or ability, between the ages of 14 and 25. It gives opportunities for personal achievements, adventure, community and social involvement and a widening of interests. There are three awards - Bronze, Silver, and Gold. We will start straight away on the Gold - there is no need to work through the various levels. To qualify for the Award, a young person must satisfy the requirements of the following five sections - Service, Expeditions, Skills, Physical Recreation and Residential Project.

Participants follow their chosen activities, largely in their own time, with guidance from someone knowledgeable in each subject. Minimum standards of achievement are laid down and when these are met, the participants qualify for an Award. A badge and certificate are presented on behalf of The Duke of Edinburgh to mark an attainment which represents the successful completion of a co-operative venture between the young and not-so-young so that, in this way, barriers between generations are eroded.

The scheme is voluntary and entry must be a participant's free choice. It is not competitive since individuals are assessed on their own progress, perseverance and achievement and the Awards are within reach of all. The programme is available to all young people whether members of a youth organisation or not. They may take part individually or together with others of their own age group. The Award programme is a vehicle for spiritual, personal and social development and the overall benefits of the Award are therefore greater than the sum of its component parts.

At College we will provide the opportunity for you to form a group to carry out the expedition, and provide the training and preparation for your expedition. We will monitor your progress towards completing your logbook and give you encouragement and advice. However, beyond this support it is up to you - you will carry out the various activities in your own time and the commitment must come from you.