Duke of Edinburgh

The School is amongst the largest maintained school providers of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a national, non-competitive and progressive award which is open to pupils at the following levels: 4th form, Bronze; 5th form, Silver, 6th form, Gold (two years). The DofE is open to all and requires pupils’ regular extra-curricular participation and effort in developing a skill, increasing physical exercise, volunteering one’s time for others, and undertaking an expedition section. Approximately 120 pupils at Bronze level, and 40 pupils each at Silver and Gold each year train at school to prepare for two self-reliant walking expeditions at each level in areas such as the Surrey Hills, the New Forest, the Brecon Beacons, the Lake District and Snowdonia. At Gold level, there is the possibility of wild camping in Scotland's Cairngorms for the expedition section as well as the requirement to spend a week’s residential project away from school, family and friends. The DofE is ideal for young people who wish to challenge themselves to attempt a new skill or activity, improve physical health, meet new friends and learn teamwork. It is also a brilliant way to give credit for the many existing ways in which our pupils already push themselves to develop beyond the classroom. See www.DofE.org or speak to Mr Edwards or Dr Dixon for more information.