DofE

DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

A purposeful, well-run Duke of Edinburgh scheme is the foundation of any outdoor education programme. The award is not a compulsory part of the College curriculum, instead it is the College’s culture of learning outside of the classroom which has resulted in the consistent uptake year after year.

Year 9 students had their first introduction to the scheme during the College’s annual Adventure Week, where they all completed their Bronze Practice expedition in Dorset. Whilst Year 10 finished their Bronze awards in the Surrey Hills. The Silver Practice and Qualifying expeditions took place in the Black Mountains of Brecon, and the Peak District respectively - with very contrasting temperatures. This year’s Duke of Edinburgh offering concluded this year in North Wales, as the Gold Qualifying teams tested themselves against the mountain ranges of Snowdonia. It was a very strong cohort, with 12 participants completing their awards. There are few experiences that simultaneously builds a combination of teamwork and independent thinking. The inedible meals, putting up a tent in the pouring rain, or the challenge of scaling a mountain in the Snowdonia – the memories of a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award last a lifetime.

Mr T Telford

Head of Adventurous Activities