Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE)

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) is a nationally recognised programme that encourages young people to challenge themselves, develop new skills and make a positive difference in their communities. Reflecting our school values of Step Forward, Be Kind and Aim High, the Award helps students build confidence, resilience and independence while developing teamwork, leadership and a commitment to service, embodying our ethos of Always Learning.

Open to young people aged 14 - 24, the Award is available at three progressive levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Students can begin their DofE journey in Year 9 by working towards their Bronze Award.

What does the Award involve?

To achieve their Award, participants complete activities across a number of sections:

• Volunteering – giving time to support individuals, charities or the local community.
• Physical – improving fitness, health and wellbeing through regular activity.
• Skills – developing existing talents or learning something completely new.
• Expedition – planning, training for and completing a team expedition.
• Residential (Gold Award only) – taking part in a shared activity with new people in an unfamiliar environment.

The DofE is not a competition. Every participant sets their own goals and works towards personal achievements. The programme is open to all young people, regardless of background, ability or experience.

Completing a DofE Award helps students develop valuable life skills, make new friendships and gain experiences that are highly regarded by colleges, universities and employers. More importantly, it encourages young people to become confident, compassionate and ambitious individuals who are ready to embrace future opportunities.

As a licensed DofE centre, our staff provide guidance and support throughout the programme, helping students choose activities, set meaningful goals and successfully achieve their Award.

DofE at Haverstock

Bronze Award – Year 9

The Bronze Award is the perfect introduction to the DofE and encourages students to develop new skills, contribute to their community and challenge themselves through adventure.

Bronze Award Introduction Video 

The Award is made up of four sections:

• Volunteering – 3 months
• Physical – 3 months
• Skills – 3 months
• Expedition – 2 days and 1 night

Participants must also complete an additional three months in either the Volunteering, Physical or Skills section.

Silver Award – Years 10 and 11

The Silver Award provides a greater level of challenge and enables students to further develop their independence, resilience and leadership skills.

Silver Award Introduction Video

The Award is made up of four sections:

• Volunteering – 6 months
• Physical – 3 months
• Skills – 3 months
• Expedition – 3 days and 2 nights

Participants must also complete an additional three months in either the Physical or Skills section.

Students who have not previously completed their Bronze Award (Direct Entrants) must undertake an additional six months in either the Volunteering section or the longer of the Physical or Skills sections.

Students who are eligible to enrol on the Award will be contacted with further information during the academic year.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is an opportunity for students to step forward into new experiences, be kind through service to others, and aim high in pursuit of their personal goals. Through dedication, teamwork and perseverance, participants gain experiences and memories that will stay with them for life.

What Our Students Say

"Bronze DofE opened many doors that are not accessible in a classroom. It was a great experience overall. I had so much fun and enjoyed sleeping in tents." - Year 9 Student

"A great experience, full of fun and memorable moments." - Year 9 Student

"It was one big adventure. It may have been challenging in the beginning, but it was extremely rewarding. An experience to remember!" - Year 10 Student

"Silver DofE was a fun yet challenging experience. It was a rewarding journey that provided lots of great opportunities." - Year 10 Student

Parent Information

View the DofE Parent Information Presentation for further information about the Award and how parents and carers can support participants.

DofE Parent Information Presentation

Find Out More

For further information about the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, please visit the official DofE website.

If you would like to discuss the programme, participation requirements or upcoming enrolment opportunities, please contact Mr Chamnaoui, Assistant Headteacher and DofE Lead, via the school office.