Duke of Edinburgh

At Queen’s Park High School students in years 9, 10 and 12 are encouraged to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) – a globally recognised youth development programme for young people. It offers the opportunity to develop essential life skills, discover new passions, make a difference in the community, and forge lifelong memories.

What is DofE?

​A life-changing experience. A fun time with friends. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for life and work. A recognised mark of achievement; respected by employers.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme is a real adventure from beginning to end. It doesn’t matter who you are, or where you are from, you just need to be aged between 14 and 24 and realise there’s more to life than sitting on a sofa watching life pass you by!

Levels of the Award

There are three levels students participating in DofE can achieve. These are:

• Bronze (Year 9)
• Silver (Year 10)
• Gold (Year 12)

You can achieve an award by completing activities in four sections (five for the gold award). Each award consists of the following sections:

1.  Volunteering – Give back by helping others.
2.  Physical – Improve fitness and well-being.
3.  Skills – Learn something new or develop a talent.
4.  Expedition* – Explore the outdoors
5.  Residential (Gold only) – A shared activity in an unfamiliar setting with new people

^{* The expedition section requires two residential trips (practice and qualifier). These are compulsory for students to give them the necessary grounding in the award, as well as to develop the essential mental and physical qualities/skills for the expedition. At Queen's Park High School this takes place in Moel Famau (Bronze), Harlech/Barmouth (Silver/Gold) and Ullswater (Silver/Gold).}

Why take part?

• Build Confidence & Resilience
  Push your limits and grow your self-belief through adventure and challenge.
• Learn Lifelong Skills
  Become more independent, improve teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
• Boost Your CV or College Application
  DofE is highly respected by universities and employers as a sign of determination and commitment.
• Improve Physical Health & Wellbeing
  Stay active and improve overall health through your physical section and expedition.
• Make New Friends & Memories
  Work as part of a team, meet new people, and create unforgettable experiences.
• Give Back to Your Community
  Volunteering helps you make a positive impact on others and grow empathy.

DofE will give you skills, confidence and an edge over others when you apply for college, university or a job. You will develop the skills of ‘Leadership, Organisation, Resilience, Initiative and Communication’ and evidence them in practice.

Please visit the DofE website: https://www.dofe.org/ for further information, requirements and for full terms and conditions. Students will be required to register on eDofE once enrolled.

Duke of Edinburgh Dates 2026