AIM OF THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH'S AWARD

To inspire, guide and support young people in their self-development and recognise their achievements.

KEY PRINCIPLES

It is essential that everyone involved in the Award, whether as a participant or Leader, shares a common understanding of the principles which underpin all aspects of the Award's delivery. These principles are:

1. Non-competitive
A DofE programme is a personal challenge and not a competition against others. Every participant's programme is tailor-made to reflect their individual starting point, abilities and interests.

2. Achievable By All
A Duke of Edinburgh's Award is achievable by any young person who chooses to take up its challenge, regardless of ability, gender, background or location.

3.Voluntary
Whilst DofE programmes may be offered within school, college, work time, custody or extra curricular activity, young people choose to do a programme and commit some of their free time to undertake their activities.

4. Personal Development
A DofE programme inspires personal and social development. The value to young people is dependent on personal commitment, the learning process and the quality of the experience.

5. Personalised
Young people design their own programme, which can be tailored to suit their personal circumstances, choices and local provision. They start at whichever level suits them best and they can take as long as they wish (within the age limits) to achieve an Award.

6. Balanced
The aim is to ensure that participants experience development of the whole person; mind, body and soul. By undertaking activities focusing on at least four different aspects of development, young people complete a balanced and wide-ranging programme.

7. Progressive
At each level of engagement, a DofE programme demands progressively more time, commitment and responsibility from the participant.

8. Achievement Focused
Before starting an activity, young people are encouraged to set their own challenging goals. If they aim for these goals and show improvement they will achieve a Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

9. Demand Commitment
A DofE programme demands persisitence and commitment and cannot be completed with a short burst of enthusiasm. Participants are encouraged to continue with activities and to maintain their interest beyond their programme requirements.

10. Enjoyable
Young people and Leaders should find participation enjoyable, fulfilling and rewarding.

BENEFITS TO PARTICIPANTS

In taking part, participants develop:

~self-belief

~self-confidence

~a sense of identity

~independence - of thought and action

~a sense of responsibility

~an awareness of their potential

~new talents and abilities

~an understanding of strengths and weaknesses

~the ability to plan and use time effectively

~the ability to learn from and give to others in the community

~new relationships

~skills including problem solving, presentation and communication

~the ability to lead and work as part of a team

For further information on The Duke of Edinburgh's Award click on the logo.