Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Bronze
At Blacon High school, students have the opportunity to take part in the The Duke of Edinburgh's (DofE) Bronze Award, a nationally recognised programme that encourages young people to develop confidence, independence and valuable life skills.
The DofE programme challenges students to try new activities, help their community and work as part of a team. It is open to students in Year 9 and above and provides a rewarding experience that supports both personal development and future opportunities.
Students taking part in the Bronze Award complete four sections, each designed to encourage them to develop different skills and interests.
Volunteering
Students undertake service within their community, helping others and making a positive contribution. This could include supporting local organisations, helping younger students, or assisting with community activities.
Physical
Students improve their fitness through a sport, dance or other physical activity. The aim is to develop commitment and perseverance while improving overall wellbeing.
Skills
Students develop practical or social skills and explore personal interests. Popular choices include cooking, photography, music, art, or learning a new hobby.
Expedition
Students work in small teams to plan and complete an expedition. This involves compulsory training sessions where students learn navigation, teamwork and camping skills before undertaking a practice expedition and a final assessed expedition. The expedition section encourages independence, resilience and problem solving.
Students normally spend around one hour per week on their Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections for a set period of time. For each activity, students are supported by an Assessor – someone with knowledge of their chosen activity who can monitor their progress and confirm their achievements.
Why take part in DofE?
The DofE award gives every student the opportunity to challenge themselves, regardless of their starting point or experience. Through the programme students develop:
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Confidence and independence
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Teamwork and leadership skills
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Organisation and resilience
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A sense of achievement
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Experiences that support college, university and career applications
The Bronze Award is a fantastic opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zone, learn new skills and achieve something they can be proud of.
Training and Help
Training sessions are compulsory and will provide students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to successfully complete their expedition. Attendance is vital to ensure students are fully prepared and confident. These session are run after school on Thursdays from 15:20 – 16:20 in 315.
Drop-in sessions are also available to support students with any questions or guidance they may need, including help with their three sections. These sessions offer a great opportunity to check progress and receive additional support. Drop-in sessions are held on Tuesdays after school in 315.
DofE Calendar
March |
April |
May |
June |
July |
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March 3rd DofE Drop-in March 4th DofE Training March 10th DofE Drop-in March 12th DofE Training March 17th DofE Drop-in March 19th DofE Training March 24th DofE Drop-in March 26th DofE Training March 31st DofE Drop-in |
April 2nd DofE Training April 21st DofE Drop-in April 23rd DofE Training April 28th DofE Drop-in April 30th DofE Training |
May 5th DofE Drop-in May 7th DofE Training May 12th DofE Drop-in May 14th DofE Training May 19th DofE Drop-in May 21st DofE Training |
June 2nd DofE Drop-in June 4th DofE Training June 9th DofE Drop-in June 11th DofE Training June 16th DofE Drop-in June 18th DofE Training June 23rd DofE Drop-in June 25th Bronze practice expedition June 26th Bronze practice expedition June 30th DofE Drop-in |
July 2nd DofE Training July 7th DofE Drop-in July 9th Bronze expedition July 10th Bronze expedition |