Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Testbourne Community School

"A large number of pupils are enrolled on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, developing self-esteem through completion of the programme." - Ofsted 2023

What is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme?

Taking part in the Award Scheme, known as DofE, can be life changing for some young people. It gives 14-24 year olds the chance to develop skills for work and life, have fun with friends, discover new interests and talents and fulfil their potential. There are three Awards – Bronze, Silver and Gold - and the Awards are a recognised mark of achievement, respected by employers and by colleges and universities.

At Testbourne we run the Bronze and Silver DofE Awards. Students can take part in the Bronze Award throughout Year 10 and into the beginning of Year 11, and the Silver Award in Year 11, with expeditions taking place after their GCSE exams. Beyond the Silver Award, students may be inspired to continue to the Gold Award when in the sixth form or elsewhere.

For more information on the DofE Award Scheme, please visit the Duke of Edinburgh's Award website by clicking on the following link: https://www.dofe.org/

Who is involved in running the DofE Award group?

A group of teachers and volunteer leaders (mostly parents from the school community) support 30 to 50 young people from Year 10 to work towards their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award each year, with a smaller team supporting Year 11 students with Silver.

Who can join the DofE Award group?

We invite Year 10 students to apply to join the Bronze Award group during the autumn term. We organise an information evening to give students and parents all the information needed. Once students have achieved their Bronze Award, they will then be invited to continue to the Silver Award if they would like to do so.

What is involved?

DofE Bronze Award participants complete four sections to achieve their Award – Physical, Skills, Volunteering and Expedition.

DofE leaders support the students and help with ideas for the first three sections, and students are then responsible for organising and spending time on their chosen activities.

For the Expedition, training sessions and some training days at weekends help prepare students with all the map reading, First Aid, walking and camping skills they will need. It’s fantastic for encouraging independence, leadership and responsibility – and along the way the students and leaders all have a great time!

Does the DofE Award group need help?

The DofE group is run entirely by volunteers and we welcome adult help. You don’t need to be trained to join us as training can be arranged through the DofE Award scheme. Getting involved might appeal to anyone who enjoys helping young people achieve their potential. Adult support could include supporting expedition training (for those campers and hikers amongst you) or giving guidance to help the DofE Award participants to complete the Skills, Volunteering and Physical sections of the Award.

For more information about how you can get involved, please contact the school.