What is the Duke of Edinburgh's Award?

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) is a real adventure from beginning to end. It doesn't matter who you are or where you’re from. It is the world's leading youth achievement award, it gives millions of 14- to 25-year olds the opportunity to push themselves to be the very best they can be. The award was founded in 1965 by HRH Prince Philip.

The award is aimed at both able-bodied young people and young people with disabilities and has become one of the best known self-development and adventure schemes for young people.

The programmes are at three progressive levels, which can commence the year a person turns 14 years of age and, if successfully completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. To complete all three awards takes between one and four years. There are around 300,000 participants enrolled annually, with the award, expanding to 140 other countries.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award will not only add to the CVs and University applications of those students involved but you'll find yourself helping people and the community, getting fitter, developing skills such as teamwork and survival skills, going on an expedition and maybe taking part in a residential activity (Gold only). Your programme can be full of activities and projects that get you buzzing. Along the way you’ll pick up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

George Kazi, DofE Ambassador at Dane Court

Find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh Award:

• pdf DofE at Dane Court (173 KB)
• pdf DofE with a Difference (47 KB)
• pdf eDofE (61 KB)
• pdf Volunteering, Physical, Skills Sections with timescales (322 KB)
• pdf My experience with DofE (2.63 MB)