Pangbourne College offers a dynamic and comprehensive Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) programme, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and adventure. The DofE Award, established in 1956 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is designed to nurture young people's skills, confidence, and resilience through a structured and progressive framework comprising three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold.
Pangbourne College’s DofE programme is designed to challenge and develop students at each level of the award through carefully planned expeditions:
Bronze Level:
Practice Expedition: Black Mountains, Wales
Assessment Expedition: Berkshire, England
Silver Level:
Practice Expedition: Black Mountains, Wales
Assessment Expedition: New Forest, England
Gold Level:
Practice Expedition: Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains, Wales
Assessment Expedition: Lake District, England
These expeditions are tailored to progressively enhance students' navigation, camping, and teamwork skills.
Recently, Gold-level participants undertook an extraordinary trip to the Falkland Islands, retracing the historic route of the Paratroopers during the Falklands War. This demanding journey, completed without modern navigational aids, tested their endurance and navigation skills in a remarkable setting.
Participation and Commitment:
Bronze Level: All Year 9 students at Pangbourne College participate, ensuring a strong foundation for their DofE journey.
Silver Level: Optional, with a high enrolment of 45 to 55 students, reflecting significant interest and commitment.
Gold Level: Optional, with 14 to 30 students demonstrating exceptional dedication to achieving the highest award level.
Benefits of the D of E Award:
The DofE Award offers numerous and varied benefits to those who take part.
1. Personal Development: The program boosts self-confidence, self-esteem, and resilience. Participants learn responsibility and independence as they navigate the challenges posed by the award's various components.
2. Skill Development: Essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving are honed. Practical skills, from cooking to playing musical instruments, are also developed.
3. Physical Fitness: The physical component of the challenge promotes regular exercise, fostering a healthy lifestyle and instilling discipline and commitment.
4. Community Engagement: Volunteering encourages social responsibility and cultural awareness, exposing participants to diverse communities and nurturing empathy.
5. Career and Academic Benefits: The DofE Award enhances CVs and university applications, demonstrating a well-rounded character and transferable skills. Participants also benefit from networking opportunities with peers, mentors, and community leaders.
6. Adventure and Exploration: Outdoor skills, including survival and navigation, are taught through expeditions, building a sense of achievement and creating memorable experiences.
7. Social Connections: Strong bonds and friendships are formed as participants work together towards common goals, enhancing teamwork and negotiation skills.
The DofE Award has a global reach, with millions of participants in over 140 countries. It operates under various names and organisations worldwide but follows the same principles and structure. The award has enjoyed continuing support from the British royal family since its inception. Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, currently serves as the Chair of Trustees, continuing the legacy of his father, Prince Philip.
Our DofE alumni often recognise that skills and experiences gained through the program have contributed to their success. This strong and supportive alumni community includes many impressive individuals across various fields, offering mentorship opportunities and support for current participants.
Through our well-structured and enthusiastically delivered DofE program, Pangbourne College ensures students gain invaluable life skills and create lasting memories, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.
For more information, contact our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager at [email protected] or visit the Duke of Edinburgh's Award website.
