Why do your dofe

So how do we try to answer it? The DofE award scheme , was set up by the Duke of Edinburgh over 60 years ago. At gold level there is an additional section working with a new team of people on a residential trip. Participants need to be 14 for bronze level, 15 for silver and 16 — 24yrs for the gold level. It is a rigorous, challenging award and hard work, with strong commitment required to complete all levels.

Licensed schools, colleges and youth groups run DofE units and the unit leaders assist and oversee participants with their journey through the levels. Approved Activity Providers deliver specific activities and DofE residentials and are assessed to ensure they attain and deliver the activities to the required standard in a safe and appropriate manner.

Through a DofE programme young people have fun, make friends, improve their self-esteem and build confidence. They gain essential skills and attributes for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive, enhancing CVs and uni and job applications. There has been much in the press and on social media over recent years doubting the relevance the benefits gained. In some cases, a negative view has been projected on these benefits by some further education bodies, indicating that it is more important for the applicant to be engaged with their subject rather than developing soft skills.

Find a DofE Centre. If you are taking your Gold Award, you will undertake a shared residential activity away from home for 5 days. Upcoming residential activities. A programme of open expeditions for those unable to complete their expeditions section with their school or DofE Centre.

Upcoming open expeditions. Transform young people's lives through volunteering for one of our DofE Centres or open expeditions; there's a role just right for you.

Become a Volunteer. At every stage of your journey, Hampshire DofE Advisers are on hand to answer any questions you may have. The award will give you an extra step ahead for the chance of success. On an expedition, you have to carry your rucksack, navigate to a certain point, and take responsibility for your cooking, water and most importantly: yourself.

Independence is a great life skill to achieve. Working as a team is an important part of DofE. Navigating, pitching a tent and looking after each other all involve working together as a team. On my Bronze Expedition teamwork was vital when a member of the group was poorly. Working together ensured everyone was safe and a satisfactory outcome for all involved. My favourite section of the award is the expedition section. On my silver DofE, we wild camped. I loved it; waking up next to a beautiful lake was fantastic and very memorable.

That feeling when you finally take off your walking boots and realise you have completed your challenge is immense. Inspired to take part in DofE, but not sure what to pack? Time limit is exhausted. The DofE is an award for youngsters and consists of four sections: volunteering, skills, physical and an expedition.