Duke of Edinburgh Award

The Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award at St Bees School runs all three levels - Bronze, Silver and Gold.

This particular set of awards are highly valued by further/higher education providers and employers alike. The DofE Awards help students work on essential life skills and gives them an edge over other applicants, proving their confidence and perseverance has been tested and they have succeeded.

WHAT IS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD?

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is more than just a qualification to be proud of – it’s a unique programme that makes a difference to people’s lives every day. Whatever your background or interests, you can gain a range of valuable life skills that will last you for life.

The DofE is many things to many people, supporting generations to successfully navigate adult life. The scheme is flexible and challenging and can be done at a level that suits you.

There are four sections to complete at Bronze and Silver level and five at Gold. They involve helping the community/environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, planning, training for and completing an expedition and, for Gold only, working with a team on a residential activity.

The very best thing about our programme is that we work in partnership with you – you take responsibility for your progress through it. We’ll support you every step of the way.

Further information is available on the official DofE Website: https://www.dofe.org/do/

WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?

There are three sections to a Bronze and Silver Award:

It is important to not that all sections MUST be completed for you to be eligible for the award.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Each Award has different timescales in which they are to be completed. You can learn more and in detail at the official link below:

Award Timescales

Bronze timescales - At Least 6 months to fully complete.

Silver timescales - At Least 6 months to fully complete if you have completed the Bronze Award, 12 months if you start on Silver.

WHAT EQUIPMENT WILL I NEED?

• Walking boots with ankle protection 
• 60l rucksack (Bronze and Silver, 70l minimum for Gold)
• Sleeping bag - adequate for the season 
• Roll mat
• Waterproof jackets and trousers.
• food and drink

You can find out more about the kit that is expected at: https://www.dofe.org/shopping/dofe-expedition-kit-guide