For the hundreds of thousands of young people who take part each year, the benefits of achieving a DofE Award at any level are endless. DofE is about helping young people along the path to a productive and prosperous future. As many of our young people say, it’s life-changing.

Achieving an Award has given our young people skills, confidence and an edge over others when they apply for jobs, college and university. Beyond our young people’s academic achievements, employers and colleges want to see evidence of so called ‘soft skills’ that they have developed through extra-curricular activities, such as communication, commitment, leadership and teamwork. Their DofE Award is a fantastic way to demonstrate and evidence these skills in practice.

Through enrichment activities, and expeditions, our young people have become fitter and healthier, made new friends and have memories to last them a lifetime.

Our young people also tell us that doing their DofE gives them character traits like confidence and resilience, that can boost their mental health and wellbeing and help them face and overcome personal challenges.  

This academic year, young people have completed their Bronze and Silver Awards, which means a number of young people will go on to their Gold. Every young person who achieves their Gold Award is invited to attend a Gold Award celebration event at Buckingham Palace Gardens in London, attended by a Member of The Royal Family. Achieving a Gold Award is a big deal so, it’s only right our young people get a proper celebration for their outstanding achievements.

Below are photos of out students engaging in all four sections of their DofE Award in both their Bronze and Silver level.