The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a youth award that has been running for 52 years and still continues to develop and improve young adults social and practical skills aiming to create confident, independent hard working boys and girls. It consists of four sections; Skills, Volunteering, Physical and Expedition. Each person has to complete three months of skills, volunteering and Physical and another three months of one of them as well as a two-day expedition to achieve Bronze, the lowest level.
First is the skills section, which is all about developing personal interests and social skills. Not only does a person learn a new talent but it helps boost self esteem and confidence. From music to performance or science and even baking you could choose anything. You could improve any skills you have or discover a completely new one. It is about broadening your understanding and rising to self set challenges and goals.
Volunteering is all about making a positive contribution to society and helping those less fortunate while gaining a sense of purpose and understanding to what others lives are like. Some year 10 Newstead students taking Bronze Duke of Edinburgh are volunteering at scope on Orpington high street as part of their volunteering section said that it feels good to know they are making an impact on society no matter how small.
The last section is the physical which doesn’t only help you to stay healthy improve fitness but also improves confidence in your body and yourself. As well as this it’s also fun and interesting to try out new sports and physical challenges.
A girl in sixth form who has already done her bronze award and is looking forward to achieving her silver said that overall the experience as challenging but an adventure where she learnt new skills and had fun. Duke of Edinburgh award is an amazing experience for anyone who wants to take part so I encourage everyone to join.
