Duke of Edinburgh's Award

At Kings Heath Secondary School, we are proud to offer students the opportunity to complete the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE).

The Bronze DofE programme is open to students in Year 9. Students begin the award during Year 9, taking part in training sessions, completing the Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections, and preparing for their expeditions. The programme is designed to develop confidence, resilience, independence and teamwork while encouraging students to challenge themselves and try new experiences.

The DofE is one of the UK's most respected youth awards, helping young people develop valuable life skills and experiences that support future college, apprenticeship, university and employment applications.

 

What does the Bronze Award involve?

To achieve their Bronze Award, students complete four sections:

  • Volunteering – Giving time to help others or support their local community.
  • Physical – Improving in a sport, dance or fitness activity.
  • Skills – Developing a new skill or building on an existing interest.
  • Expedition – Planning, training for and completing a two-day, one-night expedition as part of a team.

 

Throughout the programme, students develop:

  • Confidence and resilience
  • Leadership and teamwork skills
  • Navigation and outdoor skills
  • Problem-solving and decision-making
  • Communication and independence

A greater sense of responsibility and community involvement

 

DofE at Kings Heath Secondary School

Students receive guidance and support from our DofE Leader throughout the programme. They will take part in training sessions covering expedition skills, navigation, campcraft, first aid, road safety and outdoor cooking before completing both a practice and qualifying expedition.

The Bronze Award is a fantastic addition to future college, apprenticeship, university and job applications, demonstrating commitment, perseverance and a willingness to challenge yourself.

 

Programme Contribution

Participation in the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award requires a financial contribution. This covers registration with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, expedition training, the practice and qualifying expeditions, and associated programme costs. Full payment information and deadlines will be communicated to parents and carers prior to enrolment.

 

Equipment Provided by the School

To ensure all students have access to the essential equipment needed for their expedition, Kings Heath Secondary School provides the following equipment:

  • Tent (shared between expedition team members)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat
  • Rucksack
  • Trangia cooking stove with gas canister
  • Compass
  • Ordnance Survey (OS) map
  • Map case
  • Emergency whistle

Students are expected to provide suitable outdoor clothing, waterproofs, walking boots or sturdy walking shoes, food and drink for the expedition, and any personal items listed on the DofE kit list. A full equipment list and kit guidance will be provided before the expedition.

All equipment loaned by the school must be returned clean, complete and in good condition. Parents and carers may be charged for the repair or replacement of any equipment that is lost, damaged beyond reasonable wear and tear, or not returned.

 

Information for Parents and Carers

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting students throughout their DofE journey. The official DofE website provides guidance on how you can help, including information about choosing activities, expeditions, equipment, eDofE and the benefits of the Award.

 

More Information

https://www.dofe.org/do/parents/

If you have any questions about the Bronze DofE programme at Kings Heath Secondary School, please contact the school's DofE team:

Extra resources

  • Bronze welcome pack
  • Expedition kit list
  • Assessor reports