The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities, designed to support the personal and social development of young people aged 14-25.  It offers an individual challenge and encourages young people to undertake exciting, constructive, challenging and enjoyable activities in their free time.

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh was approached in the 1950's by the educationalist Kurt Hahn, his ex-headmaster has set up a national programme of youth activities.  HRH The Duke of Edinburgh agreed to become Patron and Chairman of Trustees and has continued in this capacity since 1956.

It is a four section programme with three progressive levels:

• Bronze (for those aged 14 and over)
• Silver (for those aged 15 and over)
• Gold (for those aged 16 and over)

The sections involve:

• Volunteering helping other people in the local community
• Skills covering almost any hobby, skill or interest
• Physical Recreation sports, dance and fitness
• Expeditions training for, planning and completing a journey on foot, cycle, horseback or water
• Residential Project (Gold Award only) a purposeful enterprise with people not previously known to the participant

The Award is available to young people between the age of 14-25, regardless of gender or background.

The Award is widely recognised by educationalists and employers. Some of the benefits to young people include developing or discovering:

• self belief
• self confidence
• a sense of identity
• independence - of thought and action
• a sense of responsibility
• an awareness of their potential
• new talents and abilities
• an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses
• the ability to plan and use time effectively
• the ability to learn from and give to others in the community
• new relationships
• skills including problem solving, presentation and communication
• the ability to lead and work as part of a team

For more information, please see Mrs Carnell.

To visit the official website, please click here