The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is one of the UK's most popular youth development programs for 14-25-year-olds, helping you build confidence, resilience, and valuable life skills. Whether you heard about it through school, family, or that episode of The Inbetweeners, DofE is as fun as you make it! If you’re thinking of signing up (or already have), this guide will break everything down into simple steps.
With the DofE award scheme, the award levels will be progressively challenging as you move up the scheme, getting longer and more strenuous. But don't worry, you can go directly to any level if you meet the age requirements. It's all about your personal growth and development.
Can I skip straight to Gold?
It’s possible but not recommended! Jumping into Gold without prior experience can be overwhelming, especially on expeditions. It’s like trying to climb Everest without any experience in expeditions! Most participants build their skills gradually by completing Bronze or Silver first. Turning up the heat slowly is better than setting it at full blast!
You’ll help others without getting paid (not for a for-profit business or organisation). This could be:
Tip: Pick something you genuinely enjoy. Volunteering for the sake of it can feel like a chore, which can get boring. I volunteered in a charity shop and loved the experience!
This is all about improving your fitness. Choose a sport or activity like:
Tip: You don’t need to be good at it; you must show progress! Trying is better than not doing it! I used to go for runs, and I wasn't amazing, yet I showed progress
Knowledge is power, which couldn't be truer with the DofE. Develop a non-physical skill, such as:
Tip: Already have a hobby? Use it! I chose photography, which made me more committed and improved my skills.
It's the most famous part of DofE! You’ll go on a self-sufficient journey in the countryside with a team of 4-7, which includes:
Duration per level:
Your award provider (i.e. Scouts, School) may organise expeditions. If not, look at Open DofE Expeditions!
You must do a 5-day, 4-night stay away from home with people you don’t know. This section is often the most developing section for DofE gold participants. It’s a fantastic way to gain independence and meet new people.
Examples include:
Tip: Use the DofE Opportunity Finder to find residentials. I decided to volunteer at CarFest. Some residentials may be expensive, and some will be cheaper. You can choose one you like and can afford. Some residentials have bursary schemes for low-income families.
1️⃣ Sign Up: Your school, college, or local youth group may offer DofE. If not, check out DofE Direct (18+ only)
2️⃣ Pick your Activities: Choose something achievable and realistic within your timeframe.
3️⃣ Find Assessors: These are people who will verify your progress. (Not your family or friends; they must be knowledgeable in the activity!)
4️⃣ Log your Progress: Use eDofE (DofE’s online system) to track your activities.
5️⃣ Complete your Sections: Stay committed and motivated, and document everything properly.
6️⃣ Celebrate: Once finished, you’ll receive your award and, for Gold, an invitation to a Royal Palace presentation!
You'll need to log in first; you don't have to use this, but it is strongly recommended. Provide evidence/assessor reports to your DofE leader, and they can upload this on your behalf. Your login information is sent to the email that you sent your local provider when signing up.
This depends on your section, but examples include:
📌 Running? Weekly logs + Strava/MapMyWalk screenshots
📌 Photography? A log + photo examples
📌 Cooking? A log + Photos of your dishes (even if they’re disasters!)
It's always good to ask your DofE leader when possible. Upload them as you do them, and your DofE leader will approve them. Once your assessor has added the assessor report, the section can be signed off if there are no issues.
Yes, you can do this. You can backdate up to three months, which can be done on eDofE. Contact your DofE leader for longer, as they can only act this. If nothing happens, escalate the issue to your award provider.
DofE is what you make it. Choose activities you enjoy, stay committed, and most importantly, have lots of fun! You've got this! 🚀