What is the D of E Award Scheme?
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a broadly based programme of activities voluntarily undertaken by participants largely in their own free time. The Scheme challenges all young people between the ages of 14 and 25 to serve others, acquire new skills, experience adventure, and make new friends, young and old.
Participants can develop existing interests or try something new. Whatever they choose to do for their Award, they can find enjoyment, excitement and satisfaction. The Scheme is not competitive, and anyone with the necessary perseverance, enterprise and effort can gain an Award, including those with disabilities.
For adults, the Scheme provides an opportunity to help by sharing their skills and experience with young people. This can lead to better understanding between the young and not so young, and strengthen co-operation within the community.
There are three Awards: Bronze for those over 14, Silver for those over 15 and Gold for those over 16 years. Each award is separate, and young people may either progress through all three, or start where they wish, depending on their age.
For each Award young people have to complete the requirements of each of four different sections (five at Gold) outlined within the Award Handbook. The qualifying standards are variously defined in terms of progress, proficiency or sustained effort.
Every new entrant receives a Record Book from the Operating Authority; in it is recorded progress through the Scheme for which all requirements have to be completed by the 25th birthday to qualify.
Since the world-famous Award Scheme started in 1956, more than two million young people between the ages of 14 and 25, have taken part in the Scheme in nearly 60 countries worldwide. Under a variety of different titles, the Award is adapted to suit the needs and cultures of each nation, but retains the same fundamental structure, aims and philosophy. All National Award Authorities are equal members of the International Award Association, the Chairman of which is HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. The Association is serviced by a Secretariat located in London.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a registered Charity.
The D of E Award also have a Journal, 3 times a year.
