The Duke of Edinburgh Award at Townsend
The Duke of Edinburgh Award program is a fantastic opportunity for our students to embark on a journey of personal development, adventure, and self-discovery. The Duke of Edinburgh Award, commonly known as the DofE Award, is a renowned youth achievement program that empowers young individuals to challenge themselves, develop vital life skills, and make a positive impact on their communities.
What is the Duke of Edinburgh Award?
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a prestigious and internationally recognized program founded by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, in 1956. It is designed to encourage young people aged 14 to 24 to participate in a range of activities that promote personal growth and self-improvement. The program comprises four main sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition, with an optional fifth section, Residential, available for those pursuing the Gold Award.
Benefits to Our Students
Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Townsend offers our students numerous benefits:
- Personal Development: The DofE Award challenges students to step out of their comfort zones, helping them build resilience, self-confidence, and leadership skills.
- Employability: Completing the DofE Award is highly regarded by colleges, universities, and employers, showcasing dedication, commitment, and a willingness to take on challenges.
- Broad Skill Set: The program encourages students to acquire new skills, from teamwork and navigation to first aid and problem-solving.
- Physical Wellbeing: Through the Physical section, students can improve their fitness and well-being, fostering a healthy lifestyle.
- Giving Back: Volunteering within the community instills a sense of social responsibility and the importance of giving back.
Bronze Award (Year 10)
For our Year 10 students, the journey begins with the Bronze Award. The Bronze Award involves a commitment to volunteering, developing a physical activity, and acquiring a new skill. The highlight of the Bronze Award is the Expedition section, where students will learn valuable outdoor skills while enjoying the camaraderie of their peers.
- Expedition Practice: Typically, the Expedition Practice takes place in June at Danemead Campsite in Broxbourne, where students learn essential camping, navigation, and teamwork skills.
- Final Qualifying Expedition: The final qualifying expedition occurs in the picturesque Chilterns in September of Year 11. It’s the culmination of their Bronze Award journey and a chance to put their newfound skills to the test.
Silver Award (Year 12)
Following their successful completion of the Bronze Award, Year 12 students can progress to the Silver Award. This stage includes further challenges and opportunities for growth.
- Practice Expedition: Students embark on their Practice Expedition in the stunning South Downs in July, where they fine-tune their outdoor skills and teamwork.
- Qualifying Expedition: The Silver Award concludes with the Qualifying Expedition, held in the beautiful New Forest in September of Year 13. It’s a chance for students to demonstrate their readiness for the next level of the DofE Award.
At Townsend, we are proud to offer our students the chance to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, enabling them to develop into well-rounded, resilient individuals with a strong sense of responsibility and achievement. We believe that this program will not only benefit them during their time at school but also set them on a path to success in their future endeavours.
