About The DofE Award

The Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award is currently being offered to students at Reading Girls School at Bronze levels. The DofE Award is an opportunity for students to develop independence skills and demonstrate to future colleges, universities or workplaces their accomplishments.

As part of the award, students must commit to giving up an hour of their time each week for three sections: Volunteering, Physical and Skills. These activities are picked by the student and must take place outside of regular school lessons. Students also complete an expedition with the school to be assessed towards their award.
 

Expedition Training

The expedition is where students complete a hike and camp using skills learnt during afterschool’s sessions and are to promote confidence and independence. A team of staff are present for support and safety but students will be expected to: navigate using a map and compass, carry their own equipment, cook their own meals, organise camping equipment and work together to complete their route. Students will be asked to attend a weekly afterschool club to ensure they are taught the skills required.

Students are not allowed smart devices on the expedition to ensure that they complete the challenge independently.

No previous outdoor experience is required. The Bronze expedition is designed to be challenging but achievable, and many students find it the most enjoyable and memorable part of the Award.

Expedition Dates can vary each year and are confirmed on students’ registration forms.
 

Equipment

Students will be instructed about required equipment to take part in the DofE Award. The school will lend some camping and expedition equipment, outlined below.

Required Equipment -  Not provided by school.

• · Technical clothing and layers.
• · Walking boots and socks.
• · Waterproof clothing.
• · Expedition food.
• · First Aid Kit
• · Sleeping bags and mats.
• · Rucksack (45 Litre)

School Equipment - To be lent to participants.

• Tent Cooking Equipment & Fuel Compass & OS Map GPS Tracker
   

Bronze Award

The Bronze Award is currently offered to Year 10 students with a cost of £95.00.

Students will complete three months towards their Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections.

If you feel your financial circumstances make it difficult for you to enrol in the DofE award, please contact the DofE Manager using the details below to discuss the issue in confidence.

If you wish to apply, forms are given out the relevant year groups at the beginning of the year, alternatively speak to the schools DofE manager; Mr. Macdonald, for more details.