The Duke of Edinburgh Award

As the founder of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has left an incredible legacy through DofE that has had a life changing impact on generations of young people. Since its launch in 1956, DofE has helped to transform the lives of millions of young people by giving them the opportunity to take on their own challenges, pursue their own passions, discover new skills and develop personal qualities that have not only made a positive difference to their own lives but have made a difference in their community.

The Wellington Academy is proud to facilitate the DofE Award. Through a DofE programme young people have fun, make friends, improve their self-esteem, and build confidence. They gain essential skills and attributes for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive, enhancing CVs and university and job applications. Top employers recognise the work-ready skills Award holders bring to their business.

The award aims to create a world where young people can reach their full potential whatever their circumstances. The charity’s ethos is to enable every young person of every background to do their DofE and succeed, regardless of any barriers

Students undertaking the DofE programme complete four different types of activity at Bronze, & Silver level to achieve an Award:

 

• Volunteering: Undertake service to individuals or the community. This develops compassion, commitment, and the confidence to make a difference. Volunteering in the local community (giving back to local primary schools, our school library, sports teams and local care home are all examples of volunteering opportunities)

 

• Physical: improve in an area of sport, dance or fitness activities. This develops fitness, enjoyment, and, depending on the activity, teamwork.

 

• Skills: develop practical and social skills and personal interests. This helps young people to realise their unique potential and gain greater self-esteem. Pursuing a skill or hobby (learning a new skill or significantly developing an existing skill such as music performance, web design, cooking, or sports coaching)

 

• Expeditions are run to various areas throughout the UK including the local area, New Forest National Park, Dartmoor National Park, the Peak District, Lake District and Wales, including Mount Snowdon! Planning, training for and completing a self-sufficient expedition (students are required to read a map, cook, pitch a tent, learn first aid, and complete a walk in the countryside). This develops teamwork and leadership, and challenges young people to push themselves beyond their expectations.