The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities, designed to support the personal and social development of young people. It offers an individual challenge and encourages young people to undertake exciting, constructive, challenging and enjoyable things in their free time. The Award is widely recognised by educationalists and employers.

Some of the benefits to young people include developing or discovering:

• A sense of achievement
• New skills and interests
• Self-confidence and self-reliance
• Leadership skills and abilities
• Exciting opportunities
• Experience of teamwork and decision making
• Enjoyment

There are four sections to the Award. Participants should complete a minimum of 15 hours over 3 months on each of the skills, volunteering/service and physical recreation sections, with an additional 15 hours over 3 months to be spent on one of the sections. Students will be expected to make their own arrangements for these sections although this could involve participation in an existing club either at school or at elsewhere. In every case, an appropriate adult will be expected to act as a supervisor and complete a brief assessment of the participation in the activity.

The fourth section is the expedition. This is a two-day walking and camping journey, which is arranged by the School. Members of staff who have experience leading expeditions in the UK and who hold nationally recognised qualifications will give full training. This aspect of the award will be run through an approved outside organisation