The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a nationally recognised personal development programme for young people aged 14–24. It supports students to build confidence, resilience and independence while developing essential life skills for education, employment and life beyond school.

The DofE programme is built around four key sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition. Completing these sections leads to the achievement of Bronze, Silver or Gold Awards, which are highly valued by colleges, universities and employers.

• Volunteering

  Giving time to support others or the local community.
• Physical

  Improving fitness and physical wellbeing.
• Skills

  Developing a new skill or talent.
• Expedition

  Planning, training for and completing an adventurous journey.

At Burnley High School, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a popular and well-established programme that plays an important role in our commitment to personal development and enrichment.

• Bronze Award

  Year 9 students have the opportunity to complete the Bronze Award.
• Silver Award

  Year 10 students have the opportunity to complete the Silver Award.
• Gold Award

  Many post-16 providers offer students the opportunity to progress to the Gold Award.

Through DofE, students develop teamwork, leadership, perseverance and problem-solving skills. They contribute positively to their community, challenge themselves physically and mentally, and gain experiences, friendships and confidence that last a lifetime.

The images below summarise the typical section timescales for Bronze and Silver awards.

Bronze Award timings

Silver Award timings

Costs for the programme are:

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is more than a qualification. It helps young people to:

• Build confidence, resilience and independence
• Develop valuable life and employability skills
• Strengthen university, college and job applications
• Make a positive contribution to their community
• Step outside their comfort zone and achieve something they can be proud of