Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE)
At Cardinal Newman Catholic School, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award supports our mission to develop confident, resilient young people committed to service, leadership and personal growth.
WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?
To achieve each award, students must complete a personal programme of activities in four sections (five for Gold). These involve helping people or the community as a whole, getting fitter, developing new skills, planning and going on an expedition. The best bit is - students get to choose what they do to meet the award!
The Four Sections
Volunteering
- Students give time to help others, support their community or contribute to a cause they care about.
Physical
- Encouraging a commitment to regular physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
Skills
- Developing new skills or improving existing talents, both practical and creative.
Expedition
- Planning, training for and completing an adventurous journey as part of a team.
Students should ensure all activities are agreed and approved on eDofE before starting.
Award Levels Offered
Bronze Award
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Currently offered at Cardinal Newman Catholic School
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Open to students from Year 9
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Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections
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2 days / 1 night qualifying expedition
Silver Award
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Launching next academic year 2026-2027 for Y10 students
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Part of our new 3-year DofE progression model
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Extended volunteering commitment
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3 days / 2 nights qualifying expedition
Gold Award
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Launching academic year 2027-2028 for Y12 students
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Final level of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
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Includes residential section
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Supports progression beyond Sixth Form
Expeditions & Training
All students receive comprehensive training in navigation, campcraft, teamwork, safety and emergency procedures before taking part in their expedition. Expeditions are supervised by trained staff and assessed by accredited DofE assessors.
WHY DO THE DofE?
While achieving an award you gain new skills, confidence and learn to be more self-sufficient and self-motivated. Proving you have a set of skills and attributes that are looked for and valued by employers, colleges and universities.
You will be recognised for your contribution and dedication, in activities you have chosen (and may even be doing already).
You will make a difference to other people’s lives and your community, be fitter and healthier, make new friends and have memories to last you a lifetime
Your Duke of Edinburgh programme can be tailored to your own tastes and preferences. If there is a local issue or cause that you feel passionate about, or a skill that you have always wanted to acquire, this is your opportunity to make a difference and be recognised for it. Along the way you’ll pick up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
…So, you’re gaining new skills, developing yourself as an individual, helping others, being recognised and celebrated for your hard work and having fun doing it! - the question should really be, why wouldn’t you do it?
Welcome to Your DofE Journey
This short video from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award gives an overview of what students can expect from their DofE journey.
Getting Involved
Information about joining the DofE programme is shared with students and families during the school year. Interested students should speak to the DofE manager.