Share This Page

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Duke of e2

What is the DofE?

A life-changing experience. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for like and work. A recognised mark of achievements: respected by employers. Any young person can do their DofE regardless of ability, gender, background or location. The award if about setting personal challenges and pushing personal boundaries. Through a DofE programme and as an Oulton Academy student it will challenge and develop the six academy values of respect, leadership, motivation, resilience, reflection and self-confidence.

Dof1

What are the benefits to young people?

Students who follow the DofE programme develop the skills and attitudes they need to become more rounded, confident adults. Qualities that colleges, universities and employers are attracted to. So, when you support your child’s pursuit of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, you’re investing in their future.

You can expect to see your child develop in the following areas as they work through their DofE programme:

Self-belief and self-confidence
A sense of identity
Initiative and a sense of responsibility
A real awareness of their strengths
New talents and abilities
The ability to plan and use time effectively
Learning from and giving to others in the community
Forming new friendships
Problem solving, presentation and communication skills
Leadership and teamworking skills.

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. You will make a difference to other people’s lives and your community, be fitter and healthier, make new friends and have memories to last you a lifetime. Achieving an Award will give you skills, confidence and an edge over others when you apply for college, university or a job.

Dof2

Increasing Participation

Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award program at Oulton Academy has experienced a remarkable surge over the past few years, reflecting a growing enthusiasm amongst our student body. The increased engagement is a testament to the program's positive impact on personal development and the recognition of its value by both students and parents. This upward trend in participation underscores our commitment to providing enriching opportunities that extend beyond traditional academic pursuits. As more students embrace the challenges and rewards offered by the Duke of Edinburgh Award, the school continues to foster a culture of exploration, resilience, and community involvement. This flourishing interest in the program not only enhances the overall student experience but also reinforces our dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the complexities of the future.

DofE Participants

Participants’ Testimonials

“It has helped me with my anxiety and made me realise I can do so much more than I thought I could. My DofE experience has made me a stronger person mentality and physically.” – Year 10 Oulton Student.

“You have so many opportunities available to you and I know, as DofE Award holders, you’re not taking these for granted – you’re seeking out the possibilities and striving for them.” – Katie Melua, singer and songwriter.

“My DofE has helped me see how hard work can pay off, not just for yourself but for others too.” – Year 9 Oulton Student.

“What you’ve done is nothing less than awesome and a huge achievement. But it’s not the end – it’s the start of the next chapter and I hope you go on to even tougher challenges.” – Lizzie Yarnold MBE, British Olympian

Dof3

“To complete our DofE expedition, our team of six had to work together. We learnt to listen to other’s views and keep each other’s spirits up when needed. I believe that these skills will enable me to adapt quickly and successfully within a workplace team.”– Year 10 Oulton Student.

“When I get a CV through, to see the DofE on it is a big tick in the box because you chose to do something torturous and hard. You took on the challenge and got there in the end!”– Theo Paphitis, British Retail magnate and entrepreneur.

“This experience has helped me deal with knockbacks in all elements of life and I believe it will enable me to be resilient and keep focused when managing challenges in school and beyond.” – Year 10 Oulton Student.

“You are the elite, not because of your background but because of what you have chosen to become through your DofE programme. Never forget what you have done, what you have become and what you can do with it.” – Alastair Stewart OBE, Journalist.

Dof4

DofE Bronze Award - Timescale

The Bronze Award will take at least 6 months to complete. The award has four sections:

Volunteering section: 3 months
Physical section: 3 months
Skills section: 3 months
Expedition section: 2 days/1 night

You also have to spend an extra three months on one of the Volunteering, Physical or Skills sections. It’s your choice which one and, though you can change your mind later, you should decide which section you want to do for longer at the beginning. Knowing how long you’re going to do it for will help you to choose your activity and set your goals for each section.

DofE Silver Award - Timescale

The silver Award will take at least 6 months to complete: The award has three sections:

Volunteering section: 6 months
Physical and Skills sections: One section for 6 months and the other section for 3 months
Expedition section: 3 days/2 nights

If you didn’t do Bronze, you must undertake a further 6 months in either the Volunteering or the longer of the Physical or Skills sections.