The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Here at Earlston High School we have a vibrant DofE Programme for students from S3 to S6, across the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels of the programme.
Each year we see over 140 of our students sign up to the programme and start their DofE journey.
Why do DofE?
Doing their DofE is a brilliant way for a young person to discover just how much they are capable of. It gives young people the chance to make new friends, follow their passions, learn new skills and make a difference in our communities. Achieving a DofE Award is a great way to impress employers too. And it helps young people to see themselves differently and gain a new level of confidence. We always say that after taking on your DofE, you know that whatever life throws at you, you’re ready to deal with it.
The DofE is non-competitive and a powerful way for every young person to build belief in themselves, whatever their background, interests and abilities.
How it works
There are three levels of DofE Award – Bronze, Silver and Gold. To achieve their Award, your young person will need to complete four sections – Volunteering, Physical, Skills and the Expedition. At Gold there is an additional Residential section.
Young people can choose what they would like to do for the sections, and we will provide all the guidance and support they need. The Expedition involves spending 2 days and 1 night in the countryside. We provide comprehensive training beforehand to ensure everyone is fully prepared and has the best possible experience.
Next steps
Our hope is that all students once they reach S3, who wish to participate, take up this opportunity to get involved with DofE. We endeavour to keep the cost of participating in the DofE to a minimum, with support available to cover the cost of enrolment and expedition activities.
If your child is interested in taking part, but the cost is prohibitive, please do speak to us as we may be able to arrange financial support.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our DofE Co-ordinator, Martyn Lawrenson. The DofE’s website, www.dofe.org , also has lots of useful information too. I hope you’ll agree that the DofE is the perfect way for your young person to feel ready for anything.
Yours faithfully,
Martyn Lawrenson DofE Co-ordinator
Earlston High School