Duke of Edinburgh's Award

"A large number of pupils are enrolled on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, developing self-esteem through completion of the programme." - Ofsted 2023

What’s the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme?

The Award Scheme, known as DofE, gives young people the chance to develop skills for work and life, fulfil their potential and have a brighter future. There are three Awards – Bronze, Silver and Gold.

At Testbourne we run the Bronze DofE Award, and after achieving this through taking part during Year 10 and the beginning of Year 11, students may be inspired to continue to the Silver and Gold Awards when in the sixth form or elsewhere.

For more information on the Award Scheme, please visit the Duke of Edinburgh's Award website by clicking on the following link: https://www.dofe.org/

Who are we?

We are a group of teachers and volunteer leaders who support 28 young people from Year 10 to work towards their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award each year.

Can my son or daughter join?

We invite Year 10 students to apply to join the group during the autumn term. We organise a presentation evening (in person or online) to give you all the information you need.

What is involved?

DofE Bronze Award participants complete four sections to achieve their Award – Physical, Skills, Volunteering and Expedition.

DofE Leaders support the students and help with ideas for the first three sections, and students are then responsible for organising and spending time on their chosen activities.

For the Expedition, weekly training sessions help prepare students with all the map reading, First Aid, walking and camping skills they will need. It’s fantastic for encouraging independence, leadership and responsibility – and along the way the students and leaders all have a great time!

Can I help?

The group is run entirely by volunteers and we welcome adult help. You don’t need to be trained to join us as training can be arranged through the DofE award scheme. Getting involved might appeal to anyone who enjoys helping young people achieve their potential. Adult support could include supporting expedition training (for those campers and hikers amongst you) or giving guidance to help children complete the Skills, Volunteering and Physical sections of the Award.

For more information about how you can get involved, please contact the school.