Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme

Forest Oak is proud to offer Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) to Key Stage 4 at Bronze and Silver Level. The award is open to all our pupils, regardless of ability, gender or background.  One of the reasons why the award benefits Forest Oak pupils is because it isn’t a competition or about being first; it’s all about setting personal challenges and pushing personal boundaries.

The award is a prestigious programme where young people have fun, make friends, improve their self-esteem and build confidence.  They gain essential skills and attributes for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive, enhancing CVs and college and job applications.

There are four elements to the award:

1. Volunteering

2. Physical Activity

3. Skill

4. Expedition

Bronze Level Silver Level

Volunteering 3 months Volunteering 3 months

Physical 6 months Physical 6 months

Skill 3 months Skill 6 months

Expedition 1 night / 2 days *usually takes place May / June each year. Expedition 2 nights / 3 days *usually takes place in April / May each year.

(* times scales for Silver Award can vary if pupils are direct entrants)

Pupils may be able to pick their activities within each element.  If they have a special interest or attend an after school club such as scouts, guides or are in a sports team, this will count towards their award.

Activities for elements can include:

Volunteering - helping others in school (lunchtimes), helping at home, volunteering through work placements.

Physical - being part of a sports team, completing sporting activities through school

Skill - cooking, art skills (painting and drawing / clay work / fine art)

Expeditions usually take place in the Peak District between Biggin and Tissington.  They are fully supported by school staff who ensure the safety of the pupils throughout the entire expedition.  Pupils engage in team work throughout the whole expedition.  They are expected to carry everything they will need for the entire time you are away and have to achieve the conditions of the award element such as, putting up tents, cooking on a Trangia stove together, map reading and supporting each other through the experience.

Students who complete the award show pride in their achievements.  Staff are equally able to further recognise skills in young people that do not always shine through within the school setting.  The outdoor learning experience is invaluable for Forest Oak pupils.