The
Duke of Edinburgh Award
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, regardless of gender, background,
race or ability. It offers an individual challenge and encourages
young people to undertake exciting, constructive, challenging
and enjoyable activities in their free time.
Why is it called The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh was approached in the 1950s by the
educationalist Kurt Hahn, his ex-headmaster, to 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.
What does the Programme consist of?
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.
What do the Sections involve?
- Service - helping other people in the local community
- Expeditions - training for, planning and completing
a journey on foot or horseback, by boat, cycle, canoe or kayak.
- Skills - covering almost any hobby, skill or interest
- Physical Recreation - sport, dance and fitness
- Residential Project Gold Award only - a purposeful enterprise
with people not previously known to the participant.
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Who can do an Award?
Anyone aged between 14 and 25!
What
are the benefits of involvement?
The Award is widely recognised by educationalists and employers.
Some of the benefits to young people include developing or
discovering a sense of achievement; new skills and interests;
self-confidence and self-reliance; leadership skills and abilities;
exciting opportunities; friendship; experience of teamwork
and decision making; a network of local, national and international
connections; enjoyment.
How long does it take to get an Award?
It takes at least six months for a direct entrant to achieve
a Bronze Award; 12 months for Silver and 18 months for Gold.
Participants can work on various Sections of their Award at
the same time, and it should noted that practice and qualifying
expeditions must be fitted in around an individual’s
personal life. Expeditions must keep within the expeditions
season (Easter-October) |
