Introduction to DofE

Over 3.1 million young people have achieved a Duke of Edinburgh Award. The Duke of Edinburgh Award was founded by Prince Philip in 1956 who hoped that the programme would help and inspire young people on their own journey of personal development regardless of background, culture, ability, or interests. Prince Philip said that “if you can get a young person to succeed in any one activity, then that feeling of success will spread over into many others.”

Anyone aged between 14 and 24 can take part in the award. Many youth groups, clubs and schools offer DofE however, DofE Direct is available for anyone aged 18+ hoping to get involved with the Gold Award.

DofE is split into Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. At every award level, participants choose activities which fit into 3 sections: volunteering, physical and skills. The activities can be new or activities the participant is currently involved with as long as progression is shown.

Each award involves an expedition section which can be completed by modes of travel including hiking, horse riding, canoeing, and mountain biking. The Gold Award also involves a 5-day residential. Participants set their own goals for each of the sections making DofE inclusive and achievable for everyone. Participants need to be aged 14+ to start their Bronze Award, anyone aged 15+ can do their Silver Award and 16+ can take on the Gold Award.

Each award has different timescales, but awards take a minimum of between 6 and 18 months to complete depending on the level and previous DofE awards achieved. Participants who complete their Gold Awards will be invited to a Gold Award Presentation at a Royal Palace.

Why get involved? DofE enables young people to give back to their local communities, in 2021, young people volunteered just over 1.8 million hours helping their communities. The DofE Awards help young people develop skills for life such as teamwork, problem-solving and resilience. 62% of young people say that the DofE has helped improve confidence, 70% are proud of their achievements 67% say taking part has helped them feel more responsible.

The DofE is a widely recognised award which enables young people to enhance their CV’s and job prospects. The DofE allows people to form connections, meet new friends and develop interests. All whilst having fun!

Interested in taking part? Find out more on [The Duke of Edinburgh Awards website](https://www.dofe.org/).

Written By: Ellie Gorman

Ellie is a Regional Youth Ambassador for the Cardiff area and took part in her Bronze DofE through school and Gold through St John Ambulance. Ellie is currently a University Student who loves hiking in the outdoors.