Discover how participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award can leave a lasting impact on individuals and communities.
At Leweston, pupils can enrol on the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award at Year 9, Silver at Year 10 and Gold in Year 12. The Award focuses on personal development commitment, independence and responsibility. It is well regarded by both universities and employers and can support further education applications.
Each year, many of our students eagerly sign up for the programme and delight in the opportunity it presents. This experience not only fosters new friendships with peers they may not have interacted with otherwise but also allows for the enhancement and acquisition of skills, all within the picturesque outdoor setting of Dorset.
Understanding the Duke of Edinburgh Award
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is an internationally recognised programme that was established in 1956 by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. It aims to empower young people aged 14 to 24 by providing them with opportunities for personal development and growth.
The programme consists of four main sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition. Participants are required to choose activities in each section and set goals for themselves. They are then assessed on their progress and achievement.
By participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, individuals have the chance to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and broaden their horizons. It encourages young people to step out of their comfort zones and take on new experiences, helping them to discover their strengths and build self-confidence.
Benefits of Participating in the Award
Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award offers a wide range of benefits for individuals. Firstly, it enhances personal development by promoting self-reflection, goal-setting, and self-discipline. Through the programme, participants learn how to manage their time effectively and take responsibility for their own progress.
Furthermore, the Award encourages young people to engage in meaningful activities that contribute to their communities. By volunteering their time and skills, participants develop a sense of social responsibility and empathy. This fosters a stronger connection to their communities and encourages active citizenship.
Additionally, the Duke of Edinburgh Award is highly regarded by employers and educational institutions. The programme demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, resilience, and perseverance. It sets participants apart from their peers and can greatly enhance their resumés or university applications.
Lastly, participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award provides opportunities for adventure and exploration. It allows students to experience the great outdoors, develop teamwork skills, and overcome challenges. These experiences create lasting memories and instil a sense of adventure and resilience.
Community Impact of the Duke of Edinburgh Award
The Duke of Edinburgh Award has a significant impact on communities. Through the volunteering section, participants contribute their time and skills to various community organisations and initiatives.
By engaging in volunteering activities, students develop a deeper understanding of social issues and the needs of their communities. They learn to empathise with others and become advocates for positive change. This fosters a sense of social responsibility and encourages young people to actively contribute to the betterment of society.
Furthermore, the Duke of Edinburgh Award promotes collaboration and teamwork through the expedition section. Participants work together to plan and execute expeditions, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cooperation. This teamwork extends beyond the programme and can have a ripple effect in the community, encouraging collaboration and unity.
Success Stories of Award Recipients
The Duke of Edinburgh Award has transformed the lives of countless young people around the world. Many of Leweston's participating students have shared inspiring success stories that highlight the Award's impact.
For example, Chloe J, Year 13, recently visited Buckingham Palace to receive her Gold award after enrolling on the Duke of Edinburgh in Year 9 at Leweston. Chloe said "Having completed the Bronze and Silver, I decided that Gold would be the perfect closure to a programme I started in Year 9.
During Year 12 I undertook 12 months of volunteering at a local Girl Guiding group. Here I worked in the Brownies and Rainbows section, teaching children from 5 to 10 years old about first aid, water safety and what to do in an emergency. I also helped to tidy and set up each week and on trips such as swimming and ice-skating with the children. For the physical section, I used my current classes in Kickboxing. Finally for skills I continued my piano lessons - a skill which I have used since the Bronze Award.
As Year 12 drew to a close, our expedition took us to the stunning landscapes of Wales. We embarked on two training walks to prepare for our ultimate challenge – a 4-day trek through the majestic Snowdonia. Following this, we embarked on an independent residential experience for 5 nights, where I not only achieved my first aid qualifications but also formed lasting connections with new friends, some of whom I still keep in touch with to this day."
Tully C, Year 13, also completed the Gold Award, visiting Buckingham Palace in May 2024. Tully said:
"For my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, I successfully conquered three challenging sections: Physical - mastering swimming over a year, Skill - honing my culinary talents with Leiths for six months, and Volunteering - dedicating a year to coaching a weekly swim session. In addition to these accomplishments, I embarked on a five-day residential adventure of my choosing at Land and Wave in Swanage. Here, I obtained a level 2 first aid qualification, earned the paddle safe award, and forged lasting friendships while participating in various activities. The ultimate test awaited me in Snowdonia, where a small group of four, including myself, teamed up with the Gryphon School to form an unstoppable sixth team. Despite enduring four days of relentless rain and putting our navigation and teamwork skills to the ultimate test, we emerged victorious, securing the second spot out of six teams!
At the culmination of our journey, we were honoured to visit Buckingham Palace, where we strolled through the majestic gardens and were inspired by the words of the Duke of Edinburgh himself. It was a truly unforgettable experience, one that I wholeheartedly recommend to younger students embarking on their own adventures."
Ellen D, Year 13, also completed the Gold Award alongside Tully and Chloe. Ellen said:
"During my pursuit of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, I dedicated 12 months to volunteering at a tennis club, where I mentored younger players during their sessions. As a tennis enthusiast myself, it was truly fulfilling to share my passion with others and witness their enjoyment of the sport.
For my Skills section, I delved into the art of essay writing, a skill that greatly aided me in crafting my EPQ project.
In terms of Physical activities, I seamlessly integrated my love for running. Tracking my progress weekly kept me motivated and prepared for the challenging expedition ahead. Despite facing poor weather conditions during our final trek in Snowdonia, we shared countless memorable moments and emerged from the experience with a deep sense of pride. The opportunity to visit the Palace and receive the prestigious Gold award a lovely way to reflect on our journey."
These success stories demonstrate the transformative power of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their own lives and communities.
Tips for Maximising Your Duke of Edinburgh Award Experience
To make the most of your Duke of Edinburgh Award experience, it's important to approach it with enthusiasm and dedication. Here are some tips from our students who have completed it for students considering the award:
1. Choose activities that align with your interests and passions. This will make the experience more enjoyable and rewarding.
2. Set realistic goals for each section and create a plan to achieve them. Break down your goals into smaller milestones to stay motivated.
3. Embrace challenges and step out of your comfort zone. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is designed to push you beyond your limits and help you grow.
4. Take advantage of the support and guidance provided by your leaders, teachers and mentors. They can offer valuable insights and advice.
5. Reflect on your experiences and the skills you've developed. Use these reflections to enhance your personal growth and build self-awareness.
6. Although it seems like a lot of time and effort, KEEP GOING, the award ceremony is so worth it!
To find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Leweston visit our website here or get in touch - admin@leweston.dorset.sch.uk
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