Parents' information for DofE expeditions in the UK and overseas

What is the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s Scheme?

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, founded in 1956, is the world's leading youth achievement award. Their aim is to inspire young people to create challenges that are enjoyable and fulfilling, which in turn provides greater chances of success for your child, particularly in the new economy.

There are three awards: BRONZE, SILVER and GOLD. At Sam Sykes Ltd each participant from the outset is encouraged to achieve their Gold. The awards are recognised and thought highly of by business leaders and leading authorities worldwide, giving participants something different to offer and making your child stand out amongst their peers. Each level has four sections:

1. 1) Volunteering - This helps to inspire young people to make a difference in their communities, or to an individual's life. They develop compassion by giving service to others. The results can be amazing and enlightening.
2. 2) Physical - Helping and directing young people to achieve greater levels of fitness and awareness of health through participation and achievement.
3. 3) Skills - Helping young people develop communication skills and personal interests practically and socially. They may choose to improve a skill they already have or develop new ones.
4. 4) Expedition - The expedition brings out the spirit for adventure, focusing the groups on planning and training for an adventurous journey. They learn to work confidently within a team, using their initiative and becoming self reliant. This area of the award is extremely fulfilling and rewarding to all that take part.

You also need to be aware there is a fifth section with the Gold award. This is called:

The Residential

Achieving their Gold award is encouraged from day one with Sam Sykes™, setting the standard for delivering the Duke of Edinburgh’s awards. The residential is designed to challenge participants' learnings by working within a team environment with people they don’t know. The benefits of this section change the way your child communicates and works in unfamiliar situations. This enhances their awareness and makes them more prepared for the real world environment.