The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a youth program, offering young people between the ages of 14–24 a challenging way to develop key skills, contribute to their communities, and challenge themselves physically in their expeditions. While the award is widely recognised and esteemed, amassing more than 323,000 young people per year, it's important to understand both its benefits and drawbacks before starting this potentially ten-year journey. 

 

According to the DofE website “The DofE award is all about giving young people the chance to build their confidence and self-belief, so they feel ready for anything”. However, these aren't the only benefits, DofE also helps to develop new skills. For example, participants in the DofE undertake activities across various areas, including skills development, physical fitness, volunteering, and expeditions. This holistic approach creates well-rounded individuals who have diverse abilities and experiences.  

 

DofE also provides networking opportunities as engaging in these activities often leads to interactions with diverse groups of people, including mentors, peers, and community leaders. These connections can be valuable in both personal and professional life.  

 

The program also encourages personal growth as completing the DofE requires perseverance, commitment, and self-discipline. Participants often report increased confidence, resilience, and leadership skills after completing the program.  

 

Although, one of the main reasons many students initially decide to undertake the experience, isn't for the metal benefits but instead the career opportunities. The recognition and prestige granted by completing the DofE award is highly regarded by universities due to its rigorous requirements and association with the British Royal Family. Holding a DofE award can enhance a candidate's personal statement by presenting them as a well-rounded individual.  

 

A few weeks ago, fourteen students from Saffron Walden County High School travelled to the Peak District to embark on their gold level DofE practice walk. I talked with some of the students who participated in this. 

 

Lucy Taylor described how "DofE has taught me lots of things like leadership and confidence… I’ve also leant BSL through it which was something I never thought I'd be able to do.” 

 

Lee Cooper agreed stating, "I've loved the expedition the most as I'm a very adventurous person so being able to spend four days in the wilderness with my friends was an incredible experience.” 

 

While it is clear that DofE is a worthwhile experience, it can't be ignored that the financial costs and resource demands associated with participation exclude individuals from less privileged backgrounds.  

 

The DofE involves costs such as registration fees, expedition fees, and expenses related to specialized training and equipment. These can add up significantly, making participation unaffordable and inadvertently discriminating against individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. 

 

The exclusivity of the DofE can indirectly impact university admissions processes, creating disparities in opportunities for higher education. Holding a DofE award is seen as prestigious and can enhance an applicant's profile. However, this advantage is not equally accessible to all students, potentially disadvantaging those unable to participate due to financial constraints. 

 

While the Duke of Edinburgh's Award offers valuable experiences and skills development, its exclusivity due to financial and resource barriers highlights broader issues of access and fairness in education. By addressing these challenges through proactive measures to enhance inclusivity, the DofE can fulfill its mission of empowering young people from all backgrounds to achieve personal growth and contribute positively to society, regardless of their socioeconomic status.