The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global Framework for non-formal education, which challenges young people to dream big, celebrate their achievements and make a difference in their world. Through developing transferable skills, increasing their fitness levels, cultivating a sense of adventure and volunteering in their community, the Framework helps young people to find their purpose passion and place in the world to become #WORLDREADY.

Why we offer The Duke of Ed:

Epping is proud to offer the Duke of Ed as it aligns with the School values of Respect, Responsibility and Engagement. It also offers students challenge, achievement, and growth by placing them outside their comfort zones, building resilience and providing new and exciting experiences. The Framework is not a competition against anyone else but rather a personal challenge. It offers the opportunity to work with others while focusing on individual abilities. Participation is entirely voluntary and is structured so participants can design their own unique program centred on their interests and passions.

The Framework promotes high-quality social, emotional, and behavioural interactions through collaborative activities and service. These experiences encourage positive relationships across the school community while developing key life skills such as resilience, empathy, and communication. By engaging in activities that require teamwork, commitment, and reflection, Users grow in their ability to navigate challenges effectively, both individually and as part of a group.

The Duke of Ed encapsulates student voice by empowering participants to take ownership of their journey and make meaningful choices about their activities and goals. The program also provides visible leadership opportunities for all students, as they are encouraged to take initiative, demonstrate responsibility, and inspire others through their dedication and achievements. Through these opportunities, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award builds future-ready leaders who are confident, compassionate, and driven to make a positive impact on their communities.

The Framework:

There are three Award Levels to the Duke of Ed: Bronze Level, Silver Level and Gold Level

Description

Physical Recreation

The Physical Recreation Section is good for your health and wellbeing, and it can also teach you valuable team skills as well as improve your confidence. Participating in physical activities can also provide you with a great opportunity to make new friends.

Skill

The Skills Section is all about helping you to develop your personal interests, talents, and hobbies. The Skills Section could also be an opportunity to try something completely different for the first time.

Service

To complete the Voluntary Service Section, you’ll be asked to spend some of your time over a period giving service in the community.

Adventurous Journey

The Adventurous Journey Section is an exciting opportunity to step outside your comfort zone on a team journey. To complete your Adventurous Journey, you’ll work together with a group of other Duke of Ed Users to plan, prepare, and train for your journey before setting out on one Practice Journey and progressing to your final Qualifying Journey which will be assessed.

Gold Residential Project
(Gold only)

You’ll only complete the Gold Residential Project when you reach the Gold Level of the Framework. To meet the requirements of the Gold Residential Project, you’ll be asked to spend no less than five days and four nights away from your usual residence and in the company of others you don’t already know.

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Mr Leggo is the overall coordinator of the Framework at Epping Boys High School with the following staff working directly with participants as Duke of Ed Leaders in each respective Award Level:

Mr Mere-Smith – Bronze Level
Mr Bell – Silver Level
Mr Leggo – Gold Level

Completing the Duke of Ed requires you to be organised, independent and a trustworthy student that is willing to commit to a challenge and learn from mistakes.