The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an internationally recognised scheme providing life-changing experiences, opportunities to discover new interests and talents, and tools to develop essential skills for life and work. It is also a well recognised mark of achievement, respected by employers and universities. DofE has grown into an integral part of the enrichment programme at Churston over the last 20 years – annually an excellent proportion of our students between Y9-13 participate and complete an award.

Young people can do a DofE programme at one of three progressive levels which, when successfully completed, leads to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. There are four sections to complete at Bronze and Silver level and five at Gold. They are;

• Volunteering
• Physical
• Skill
• Expedition
• Residential for Gold only

Any young person can do their DofE – regardless of ability, gender, background or location. Achieving an Award isn’t a competition – it’s all about setting personal challenges. Participants choose their own activities for Volunteering, Skill and Physical – these must be in non-curriculum time but can be undertaken in or out of school. Our expeditions usually take place in our local area for Bronze, and for Silver and Gold teams go further afield and more remote, enjoying the challenges of journeying on Exmoor, Dartmoor and for Gold in Snowdonia.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a registered charity, funded by donations, Participation Places and licences. The charity works with LOs across the UK to increase opportunities for young people to gain the benefits of doing their DofE. At Churston Pupil Premium students can apply for funding towards their DofE, and support is available for students who require it in other regards.

“Doing Silver DofE has helped me make new friends going into Y11, widening my social circle. Getting involved in activities outside of lessons makes me feel more a part of Churston life!”  –  Daisy Y11